Learning the social skills to carry on conversations using appropriate tone of voice and body language can be hard, particularly for teens with autism. Teach your students how to navigate social interactions with peers using the “SWEET” method!
SWEET conversations should follow these guidelines so that both parties show respect for each other and practice active listening and engagement.
- S (space) – maintain appropriate physical distance from the person with whom you’re conversing. Getting too close can make people feel uncomfortable, but being too far away means you’ll have to shout to be heard
- W (ways to give feedback) – how will you show that you’re listening and engaging in the conversation actively? Nodding along or responding at appropriate points in the conversation shows that you’re listening.
- E (eye contact) – keep your eyes and body facing the person with whom you are engaged in conversation
- E (expression) – pay attention to your facial expressions and body language and those of the person with whom you are speaking; they give you clues about how the person is feeling
- T (tone of voice) – be sure to use appropriate tone, volume, and inflection when you’re speaking
LAME conversations show a lack of respect and engaging body language, making it less likely that your peers will want to continue conversing with you in the future.
- L (looking away) – looking away or turning your body away from the person speaking with you shows that you aren’t really interested in the conversation
- A (always talking) – always talking about yourself and not asking the other person anything about their interests makes conversations one-sided and not fun for both people
- M (misinterpretation) – not speaking clearly or misinterpreting what someone is trying to say can lead to hurt feelings and uncomfortable conversations
- E (expressionless) – showing a complete lack of expression will make it seem like you’re uninterested in the conversation and may lead other people to avoid talking with you
These special education resources for accepting change were authored by the Watson Institute’s special education professional, Marcia Laus, M.Ed.
Social Skills PowerPoint Presentation
Conversation Skills: Voice and Body Language PowerPoint Presentation
Social Skills Resource Materials
Voice and Body Language Outline
Voice and Body Language Mini Schedule
Voice and Body Language Activity 1
Voice and Body Language Activity 2
Voice and Body Language Teacher Note
Voice and Body Language Parent Note
Voice and Body Language Magnet Cards
Voice and Body Language Homework
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