When you communicate with families, do so from a place of mutual respect. Remember that parents know valuable information about their children and want to bring it to the table. When you communicate about complex topics, try to use everyday language. Make communicating with families a priority; send home a notebook or communication page frequently to update parents on their child's progress and provide an opportunity for them to report their accomplishments or concerns.
In an early childhood setting, communicating with fellow teachers and staff is an important aspect of the job. Focus on communicating in a respectful and professional way, even when the message is not as positive as you would like. Try the "sandwich" approach of telling a co-worker one positive statement, one suggestion of something to work on, then another positive statement. People respond more positively to constructive criticism when it is sandwiched between two pieces of constructive praise.
When you communicate with children, try to spend more time telling them what you want them to do and less time telling them what not to do. Instead of telling a child, "Don't run" or "No running," say "Walk, please." Instead of telling her "No hitting," say "Touch gently." Give specific praise when children follow the rules or help others. Be consistent with your expectations and make sure that they are developmentally appropriate for the children's ages and abilities. Children thrive in environments where they know what to expect and what you expect of them.
Remember that people learn more about you by what you do than by what you say. Model respectful communication with everyone you encounter. Always find one positive thing to say about a co-worker, child or parent, and do not say behind someone's back what you would not say to his face. Keep in mind that your words have the power to tear someone down or to build them up, and focus on building people up.