Practical ways to help students find their voices again—and why it matters more than ever
In recent years, schools have faced a growing challenge: supporting young people in rebuilding their communication skills. While the COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in shaping this issue, it’s far from the only factor. Increasing reliance on technology such as AI, affluent neglect, the rise of social media, and a growing mental health crisis—coupled with overstretched support services like CAMHS, Educational Psychology, and Speech & Language Therapy—have all contributed to the difficulties many young people face in expressing themselves confidently in a range of contexts.
For some, the impact is subtle: a struggle to pick up on verbal nuances or inference. For others, especially those whose development was at a critical stage during the pandemic or who lack access to support, the challenges are more profound. The result? A generation that needs intentional guidance to reconnect with their voices and build the confidence to express themselves verbally, and non-verbally in meaningful ways.
Nurture, Nature, and the Communication Gap
It’s important to recognize that these challenges are not uniform. A student’s ability to develop and rebuild communication skills depends on a mix of factors. Some benefit from nurturing environments that encourage regular conversation, while others faced isolation or anxiety that made verbal interaction more difficult. Similarly, systemic issues like delayed diagnoses and limited access to therapeutic interventions have compounded the difficulties for many young people.
And while we can’t change these circumstances, we can create environments that help young people regain their confidence, one conversation at a time.
Breaking Down Walls: Crumble’s Story
I once taught a young person whose anxiety and mental health challenges had a profound effect on their verbal communication. They rarely, if ever, spoke at school. The walls they had built around themselves were so high and thick that even after a couple of years, very few of us had heard their voice.
Then Crumble arrived—our school dog. The connection was instant. This young person quickly became Crumble’s main carer in school, taking on responsibilities that would have seemed impossible before. They would lead Crumble from class to class, accompany staff on her walks, and soon became so comfortable in this role that they volunteered to talk on camera about Crumble and her duties for the school website.
What had once been an impenetrable wall was now a gateway. Through Crumble, this young person rediscovered their confidence, their voice, and a sense of purpose.
It was a poignant reminder that communication isn’t just about teaching words. It’s about building trust, fostering connection, and creating spaces where young people feel safe enough to speak.
Practical Ways to Foster Communication Skills
As school leaders, we have a unique opportunity to support students in rebuilding their communication skills. Here are a few practical techniques:
Create Low-Stakes Speaking Opportunities
Activities like small group discussions, pair work, or “talk tokens” (where students earn points for contributing verbally) can help ease reluctant speakers into the habit of talking.
Model Empathy and Curiosity
Show students what active listening looks like. Phrases like, “I’m curious, can you tell me more about that?” encourage openness and signal that their thoughts are valued.
Use Creative Mediums to Encourage Expression
For some students, verbal communication will flourish when tied to something they love. Art projects, storytelling, a school allotment or even caring for a school pet like Crumble can provide a bridge to more confident speaking.
Address Modern Communication Challenges
Discuss the impact of digital communication on relationships with both students and parents. Help Students navigate online interactions while fostering in-person connection and emotional intelligence. Offer parents the opportunity to learn about the impact their own approach to social media use may be having on their children.
Celebrate Small Wins
Progress won’t look the same for every student. For one, it might be answering a question in class; for another, it might be a presentation in assembly. Recognise and celebrate each step, no matter how small.
The Ripple Effect of Communication
When young people learn to communicate confidently, the benefits ripple outward. They’re not just better prepared for academic success but also for building relationships, navigating challenges, and contributing meaningfully to their communities.
As leaders, when we model open, empathetic communication, we create a culture where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. And who knows? The next “Crumble moment” might be just around the corner, waiting for the right environment to unlock it.
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