Conversation Skills
This is the ability to pay attention during a conversation.
What is conversational attention? Paying attention when someone is talking.
This is the ability to pay attention while doing something.
What is task attention? Staying focused while completing a task.
This helps you stay on track by reminding yourself what to do.
What is self-talk? Using your voice to guide your actions.
What is one thing you can take if you feel tired?
What is a short break? A brief pause to rest your brain.
After a brain injury, attention may feel like this.
What is harder? It takes more effort to focus.
Name one way to show you are listening.
What is eye contact, open posture, or turning toward the speaker? Body language that shows attention.
What can you do to make sure you understand a task?
What is asking questions or paraphrasing directions? Checking understanding.
What can you repeat to stay focused?
What are the steps of the task? The order of actions.
How long should breaks be?
What is 1–2 minutes? short so you don’t lose focus.
Is it normal for attention to be harder after a brain injury? (Yes or No )
What is yes? This is normal.
This means repeating information in your own words.
What is paraphrasing? Saying what someone said in your own words to help understanding and memorize.
This strategy helps you repeat steps to yourself.
What is self-talk? Give yourself instructions to stay focused.
This helps you remember what comes next.
What is saying the next step out loud? Helping your brain stay organized.
Name one activity you can do on a short break.
What is stretching, walking, drinking water, closing your eyes, or looking out a window? Ways to refresh your mind.
Even simple tasks may feel like this after a TBI.
What is tiring? Your brain uses more energy.
Why do we ask questions during a conversation?
What is to show interest and clarify information? Helping you understand better.
Should self-talk be silent or out loud?
What is out loud (when possible)? Hearing your voice helps attention and memory.
What can you do if your mind wanders?
What is refocusing using self-talk? Bringing your attention back.
Why should breaks not be too long?
What is you may get distracted or forget the task? Losing track.
Tasks may take more of this after a brain injury.
What is time and effort? It is okay if things take longer.
Name one distraction to remove during a conversation.
What is turning off your phone or reducing noise? Removing things that take attention away.
Why is understanding the task important?
It helps you complete it correctly, improving success.
Why is hearing your own voice helpful?
It strengthens attention and memory, helping you stay engaged.
What happens if you work too long without a break?
You may feel tired or lose focus. Your brain needs rest.
Can attention improve with strategies? ( Yes or No )
What is yes? Strategies can help you succeed.