Task 3 – Nonverbal Communication Nonverbal communication is the way we communicate with others through channels other than our voice (quote). There are 10 nonverbal communication channels, each of which plays a significant role in how we present ourselves and interact with others. 85% of communication between humans is nonverbal (Bruce, 2004). Nonverbal communication is often used to support or replace verbal communication, people are often aware of their own nonverbal communication when talking to others; but it's easy to become unaware of the expression you may have or your body language. This assignment will explore the role of facial expression, kinesics, paralanguage and proxemics and their importance within communication. It is crucial to consider the person you are interacting with as children interpret facial expressions differently than adults (Balconi, 2010). Children observe an adult's facial expression and tone of voice to distinguish what researchers call "social referencing"; by age 10 months, infants can use emotions to interpret information (Talaris Institute, 2012). People from different cultural backgrounds may also find it difficult to interpret what is said; if we are not clear about our expressions. Dimberg, Thunberg, and Elmehed (2000) believe that when we communicate with others, we automatically imitate other people's facial expression. Facial expressions are among the most universal forms of body language. Matsumoto (2006) states that there are six universal facial expressions. These include anger, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness, and surprise; and are distinguishable from any person, from any culture or when we talk to another individual, even the distance in which our bodies are located, can communicate a message. Some people have little or no awareness of personal space, but for others spatial awareness is a significant factor. Depending on your relationship with the person you are communicating with, the distance you and the other party are at; it can make the difference between an embarrassing situation or a comfortable situation. It is often easy to observe whether the other person is feeling uncomfortable, simply by how they react. If they feel you are too close, they often pull back, feeling out of their “comfort zone” (O'Neil, 2009). Personal space is often affected by available space. There is a difference in the atmosphere, if 2 people are stuck together in a crowded atmosphere versus being stuck together in an empty room. (Diversity Council, 2008) It is important when communicating with children to get down to their level, this way you can fully engage in conversation with them and identify attempts at communication. Children prefer someone who is on their same level, it is easier for them to approach you and avoid being intimidated, due to your sovereignty over them (Child Care Plus,