Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is an approach to communication that aims to create more authentic and respectful relationships. This approach can be taught to children to help them develop effective communication and conflict resolution skills. Here is how to explain NVC to children:

• Teach empathy: NVC encourages children to put themselves in the shoes of others to better understand their perspectives and feelings. 
• Encourage the expression of feelings: NVC encourages children to express their feelings clearly and directly, without being aggressive or hurtful. 
• Teach assertiveness: NVC encourages children to be clear about their needs and limits, without being violent or passive. 
• Encourage active listening: NVC encourages children to pay attention to others and listen to what they have to say, without judging or criticizing. 
• Teach conflict management: NVC encourages children to resolve conflicts peacefully, using communication skills such as active listening and expressing feelings. 
• Encourage recognition of feelings: NVC encourages children to recognize the feelings of others and to respect them, even if they disagree with them. 
• Teach repair skills: NVC encourages children to apologize and make reparations when they have caused someone pain or anger. 

Our tablecloth of emotions is perfect for encouraging discussions and making children aware that situations, words, or actions can hurt others, even unintentionally.

In concrete terms, here are 5 "I" easy-to-use tips:

1. "I express myself clearly and calmly so that everyone can understand my feelings."
2. "I listen attentively to better understand others' perspectives."
3. "I focus on everyone's needs to find a solution that works for everyone."
4. "I speak about myself using "I" instead of "you" to avoid accusations."
5. "I respect others' feelings and opinions, even if I don't agree with them."

What to do with our Emotions tablecloth? 6 uses ideas​

	Ask children to name the emotion they each feel and why
Hang the tablecloth on the classroom or bedroom wall and ask the children to write their emotion of the day under the monster
	Ask them to mimic emotions like a play
Use the tablecloth as a blanket to calm down children
	Using mirrors, get children to mimic the characters on the tablecloth
Ask children to draw their own emotional monster or to draw a mouth that matches their mood of the day

In conclusion, NVC can help children develop effective communication skills and resolve conflicts peacefully. By teaching empathy, expression of feelings, assertiveness, active listening, conflict management, recognition of feelings and restorative skills, children can develop their soft skills.

You would like to buy the Emotions tablecloth, just click here!👈

Suggested books in French only:

https://www.miditrente.ca/fr/produit/de-lopposition-a-la-communication

https://www.miditrente.ca/fr/produit/guide-d-entrainement-pour-apprivoiser-son-lion

Source : La Communication NonViolente créée par Marshall Rosenberg.