Tips for Supplementing Communication While Wearing a Face
Mask
Covering the majority of the
face can make it difficult to convey emotion and communicate with others. It is
important to be conscious of the communication that is lost while wearing a face
mask. Below are some tips to supplement communication. Try different tips based
on the needs of the person you are interacting with.
Be patient
Get the other person’s attention before speaking
Make eye contact, if possible
Use context clues within the situation
Take off sunglasses and hats to allow the other person
better access to your face
Ensure adequate lighting
Be aware of your environment – Move away from noises
and distractions, if possible
Speak louder – Masks tend to muffle sound
Use short, simple sentences
Speak face-to-face and at eye level
Clarify if you are unsure what the other person is
saying
Use gestures or real-life objects – Wave, point, give
thumbs-up, and so on to reinforce what you’re saying
Use your body language to accentuate your emotions –
Such as head tilts, head nods, and your posture
Be aware of and use your eye brows to emphasize
communication
Write it down if you need to – Thicker dark letters on
white paper are more easily seen from 6 feet away
Use some sign language that is commonly known such as
thank you, please, and sorry
Use a clear face mask!
Posted 9/21/2020 2:34 PM
The latest edition of Communication Corner is now available! Communication Corner is a monthly publication from the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations that focuses on communication skills for support professionals.