Active Listening

Active Listening

Active listening is something I’ve mentioned in posts, usually with the mental health post series, but I think it’s also been in some behavior management posts, but I don’t think I’ve ever taken the time to define it. Active listening is an important skill in life and is applicable at camp in navigating camper conflicts, difficult topics, and staff dynamics.

What is Active Listening?

Active listening is a listening skill and communication tool, which may be especially useful when emotions are running high or when something is of particular importance, but can and should be used often.  The combination of positive body language and repetition helps to show you are listening while helping you listen.

Why use active listening?

Active listening has multiple benefits. Two main benefits are that it helps you absorb what your camper or fellow staff member is saying, and it also helps them feel heard. 

How do I do active listening?

Ignoring the terrible phrasing that is, active listening is fairly straightforward. From the CDC, to practice active listening (x):

give your full attention to your [camper]

make eye contact and stop other things you are doing

get down on your [camper]’s level

and reflect or repeat back what [they are] saying and what [they] may be feeling to make sure you understand

Some more guidelines can be found here, and they are more adult communication related.

Reflecting is an important aspect of active listening, and comes in the form of reflecting words and emotions. You could do this by restating the feelings a child said they had, or repeating their words. There’s some examples at the CDC link.

If you’re neurodivergent or your camper is, you may have to make certain adjustments. For example, making eye contact may not be helpful for all people. You can adjust this by leaving the option open, but not forcing it. You can still employ other parts of active listening, such as stopping the other things you are doing.