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Why Social Skills Matter: Understanding Pragmatic Language

Published: 04 Jun 2025 Tagged: LanguageLearningLanguageStimulationLanguageSupportSpecial Day Ideasspeech and language pathologySpeech and Language TherapySpeech DevelopmentSpeech Disordersspeech language pathologistspeech pathologistSpeech PathologySpeech Pathology AustraliaSpeech SkillsSpeech Therapy TipsSpeechDisordersSpeechPathologyActivitiesSpeechTherapy
Why Social Skills Matter: Understanding Pragmatic Language

Why Social Skills Matter: Understanding Pragmatic Language

When we think about language, we often imagine words, grammar, or vocabulary. But there's another side to communication — one that’s just as important: pragmatic language.

Pragmatics is the way we use language in social situations. It’s knowing how to take turns in conversation, how to change our tone depending on who we’re talking to, and how to read social cues like facial expressions or body language.

These skills don’t always come naturally to children — especially those with speech and language delays, autism, or ADHD. But the good news is: pragmatic language can be taught.

✔️ What Are Pragmatic Language Skills?

Pragmatic language includes:

  • ✔️ Knowing what to say, when, and how to say it
  • ✔️ Understanding non-verbal cues like gestures, tone, and eye contact
  • ✔️ Taking turns in conversation
  • ✔️ Starting, maintaining, and ending a topic
  • ✔️ Understanding humor, sarcasm, and figurative language

These skills are vital not just for communication, but for building friendships, resolving conflicts, and being part of a group — whether in school, at the playground, or at home.

❗ Red Flags to Watch For

Some children may struggle with pragmatics without having obvious speech issues. Here are a few signs:

  • ➡️ One-sided conversations (talks a lot but doesn’t listen or take turns)
  • ➡️ Interrupting frequently or missing social cues
  • ➡️ Difficulty with personal space or understanding tone
  • ➡️ Trouble joining play or making friends
  • ➡️ Literal interpretation of language (difficulty with jokes or metaphors)

If you notice these signs, it doesn’t always mean there’s a problem — but it may be helpful to consult a speech-language pathologist for support.

✔️ Fun Ways to Support Social Language at Home

The best way to build social language is through playful, low-pressure activities. Here are a few that work beautifully:

  • ✔️ Role-Playing: Pretend to order food, visit the doctor, or go to a party. Practice greetings and turn-taking.
  • ✔️ Storytelling and Puppet Shows: Use toys or puppets to model conversations and emotions.
  • ✔️ Board Games: Try Guess Who, Feelings Bingo, or cooperative games that require turn-taking and flexibility.
  • ✔️ Visual Supports: Use picture cues, social scripts, or routine cards to support interaction.
  • ✔️ Reading Together: Choose books with social themes and ask, “How do you think they feel?”

❤️ Final Thoughts

Pragmatic language is the foundation of connection. It’s how we form friendships, navigate group settings, and understand the world around us. When we support children in developing these social skills, we’re helping them build confidence, empathy, and stronger relationships.

At Speakable, we believe communication is more than just words — it’s about connection.

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