Communications professionals can draw valuable insights from the world of child development. As experts in connecting with audiences, fostering relationships, and delivering messages effectively, we can enhance our skills by learning from techniques that child psychologists use to connect with kids on a deep level. “The Whole-Brain Child” by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson highlights principles that can be applied beyond parenting to help build understanding and connection. As a mom who has made so many communication mistakes with my kids, I'm sharing a few of the lessons I've learned the hard way and apply in my communications practice.

1. Get on Their Level – Literally and Figuratively

In child development, one of the first principles is to get down to the child’s eye level. This simple action signals that you’re fully engaged and willing to connect in their world. In communications, "getting on their level" is about understanding your audience’s perspectives, priorities, and context. By meeting them where they are—considering their needs, language, and current mood—you demonstrate respect and understanding. Whether you’re speaking with customers, colleagues, or audiences in a digital space, take time to "sit with" their viewpoint, which allows you to establish a connection that feels authentic.

When working on an important communication, consider what’s going on in the audience’s world. Are they under pressure? Seeking inspiration? Looking for answers? Addressing their emotional and situational context lets you resonate more deeply with them.

2. Connect and Redirect

In the Whole-Brain Child, Siegel and Bryson suggest that when a child is upset, parents should first connect emotionally before trying to reason or redirect. This idea can be transformative in communications. Instead of leading with facts, arguments, or solutions, start with empathy. Acknowledge the audience’s emotions or pain points, then gradually shift the conversation towards the solution or desired outcome.

For example, if you’re managing communications during a crisis, begin with empathy and understanding for the concerns people might have. Before addressing steps or providing solutions, acknowledge the impact the crisis has on those affected. Once people feel heard, they’re more likely to be open to the message or redirection you aim to provide. Empathy can disarm resistance, leading to a clearer, more receptive path forward.

3. Join Their World Through Play and Curiosity

One of the most effective ways to build trust and understanding with children is to join them in their world of play. When a caregiver immerses themselves in a child’s activities, they create a shared experience that promotes bonding and understanding.

Communications can benefit from a similar approach. Joining your audience’s world through curiosity and shared experiences shows you’re not just speaking to them—you’re actively engaging with their interests.

Consider digital communications, for instance. Instead of broadcasting information from a distance, brands can engage audiences in interactive, playful ways: asking questions, using storytelling, and encouraging responses. When we invite our audience to participate and engage, we break down barriers and create a shared space. This sense of shared experience makes our messages feel more like a conversation than a monologue.

4. Improvise and Be Adaptable

Parents quickly learn that the best-laid plans don’t always go as expected; flexibility is key. Improvisation, rooted in awareness and adaptability, is crucial in both parenting and communications. Effective communication requires the ability to pivot based on unexpected reactions or shifts in tone. In digital and real-world interactions alike, the audience’s responses might not match what you anticipate. In these moments, staying calm, adaptable, and attuned to the audience’s needs is essential.

Think of improvisation as staying in sync with your audience. If feedback or circumstances change, embrace it as an opportunity to adjust. This shows that you’re listening and willing to meet your audience where they are in the moment, which builds trust and strengthens the relationship.

Applying These Lessons to Communication Strategies

Drawing from child development principles helps us become more empathetic, responsive, and connected communicators. Whether it’s by meeting our audience on their level, empathizing before redirecting, sharing their world, or adapting our approach on the fly, each lesson enriches how we approach communication. Ultimately, these insights remind us that truly effective communication is about creating mutual understanding and shared experience—qualities that transcend age and context, building stronger, more meaningful relationships.