Tell your child to imagine they met an alien who had never seen a Car before. In just 1 minute they need to explain what it is, how it works, what it is used for….and anything else you think is relevant. This is a test of conciseness and can be repeated for any other object that is "obvious" to your child, but might be "alien" to a newcomer. To make it harder, ban the use of "ums" and "errs"!

1) We drive around in cars. Why is this?

2) What do Cars look like?

3) How do they make you feel?

There are 3 ways to communicate and studies show that body language is the most effective , followed by tone and then by content. Explore which you use when speaking in person vs on phone vs by WhatsApp.

1) When I WhatsApp my friend I just send them words. How effective is this?

2) Why are in person meetings the most effective?

3) Can you say "I need some water" in different ways by varying body language and tone -  politely /urgently / sarcastically?

Make a spur of the moment phone call to a friend, and have your child chat to them for a few minutes. You can tell your friend that you are teaching your child the importance of talking with new people.

1) We could ask them what they have done today. Why don't you try it?

2) What are they having for dinner tonight?

3) What is their next holiday planned?