Communication can be tricky, and it takes practice. We have lots of different ways to communicate – from talking to people, writing to people using email, social media, or text, and the way we communicate through body language.

Communicating respectfully means both listening and being heard; being honest; and showing that you care about other people’s feelings and choices.

When communicating respectfully, it’s important to be an active listener. Active listening can involve the following steps:

• Listen – Actively hear what is being said
• Acknowledge – Let the person know you have heard what they have said and acknowledge how they are feeling
• Clarify – Check to see whether you have understood the meaning of what they have told you
• Ask – Ask if there is any further information you need to have