First Impressions
Introducing yourself, explaining your role, and stating the purpose of your visit helps establish this from the start.
What is trust?
"Can you tell me what happened?" is an example of this type of question.
What is an open-ended question?
Asking families about their strengths instead of only focusing on problems reflects this approach
What is a strengths-based approach?
Remaining calm when someone becomes upset demonstrates this professional skill.
What is emotional regulation?
Respecting differences in family traditions and beliefs demonstrates this.
What is cultural humility?
Rather than jumping into difficult questions, you begin with this type of conversation.
What is rapport-building?
Repeating back what you heard to ensure understanding is called this.
What is reflective listening?
Inviting parents to participate in planning encourages this.
What is shared decision-making?
Saying, "I can see this is overwhelming," demonstrates this communication technique.
What is empathy?
Asking families how they prefer to be addressed shows this.
Explaining what information will remain private and what must legally be shared demonstrates this ethical practice.
What is transparency about confidentiality?
Acknowledging someone's feelings without necessarily agreeing with them is known as this.
What is validation?
Asking, "What has helped your family get through difficult times before?" explores these.
What are family strengths and protective factors?
Explaining concerns with specific observations rather than accusations helps reduce this.
What is defensiveness?
Recognizing your own assumptions and biases is an important part of this professional practice.
What is self-reflection?
A calm tone, open posture, and respectful eye contact are examples of these communication skills.
What are positive nonverbal communication skills?
Avoiding technical child welfare terms and using everyday language improves this.
What is clear communication?
Following through on promises, such as returning a phone call, builds this over time.
What is credibility?
When conflict escalates, lowering your voice and slowing your pace are examples of these techniques.
What are de-escalation strategies?
When language barriers exist, using this resource promotes accurate communication.
What is an interpreter?
Arriving with assumptions instead of curiosity is an example of this trust-damaging behavior.
What is judging the family prematurely?
Giving families uninterrupted time to speak before responding demonstrates this advanced engagement skill.
What is active listening?
Working with families while recognizing their expertise about their own lives demonstrates this philosophy.
What is family-centered practice?
Recognizing how trauma may influence a family's reactions reflects this approach.
What is trauma-informed practice?
Continuously examining power dynamics and adapting your approach to honor each family's culture reflects this practice.
What is culturally responsive engagement?