Building Connection: 8 Easy Gestures to Model

At Sunny Skies Therapy, I love helping kids grow their communication skills in ways that feel natural, meaningful, and fun. One great place to start? Modeling simple “check-in” gestures/"body clues" that support connection, curiosity, and shared experiences.

Teaching “check-in” gestures, body clues, and nonverbal communication is essential for developing strong social pragmatic skills, especially in children who may not intuitively pick up on these cues. Nonverbal communication makes up a large part of how we connect with others, and explicit instruction helps children understand what others are feeling, even when it’s not said out loud. “Check-in” gestures - like glancing to see how someone reacts - promote social awareness and help kids adjust their behavior in real time.

Recognizing body clues supports empathy, perspective-taking, and smoother peer interactions, making social experiences more successful and meaningful. Whether you’re a parent, therapist, or educator, these gestures can be powerful tools - especially for those developing nonverbal communication skills. Here are eight basic check-in gestures you can start modeling today:

1. Looking at Someone’s Face

Model it: Gently turn your head to look at someone’s face.

Why it helps: This shows interest in how the other person is feeling or reacting.

Try saying: “Let’s look at their face. Are they happy or upset?”

2. Pointing

Model it: Point to what someone else is doing or looking at.

Why it helps: Pointing invites shared attention, helping us tune into what someone else is focused on.

Try saying: “She’s pointing. Let’s see what she’s showing us!”

3. Shrug + Raised Eyebrows

Model it: Shrug slightly while raising your eyebrows.

Why it helps: This nonverbal cue shows curiosity or a gentle “What now?” without needing words.

Try saying: “Hmm?” (while using the gesture)

4. Thumbs Up / Thumbs Down

Model it: Use thumbs up or down to show approval or disapproval.

Why it helps: It’s a quick and visual way to check how someone feels about an idea.

Try saying: “Was that okay?” (and pause to allow for a response)

5. Pausing and Looking

Model it: Stop what you’re doing and glance at another person.

Why it helps: This communicates, “I’m waiting for you,” which promotes turn-taking and shared decision-making.

Try saying: “Let’s wait and see what they say.”

6. Hand to Ear Gesture

Model it: Cup your hand behind your ear as if you’re listening.

Why it helps: It visually signals that you’re paying attention and ready to hear someone’s input.

Try saying: “Let’s listen for their answer.”

7. Open-Handed “What Do You Think?” Gesture

Model it: Hold your palms up with arms slightly out.

Why it helps: This is an inviting, nonverbal way to open the floor for feedback or ideas.

Try saying: “What do you think?” or “Should we do that?”

8. Hand Extended to Signal “Stop” or “Back Up”

Model it: Hold one hand out, palm facing outward, like a stop sign.

Why it helps: This empowers children to advocate for their personal space or signal when something feels too much. It’s a powerful gesture of self-advocacy.

Try saying: “Stop", "I need space,” or “back up.”

These small gestures can go a long way in making communication feel safe, collaborative, and affirming for children.

At Sunny Skies Therapy, I believe every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and included. Start with a gesture, and build a bridge of connection from there.

Want more tips like this? Follow us on @sunnyskiestherapy or visit www.sunnyskiestherapy.com to learn how we support children and their families.

With Love,

Hannah Bogash, CCC-SLP

Founder, Sunny Skies Therapy

(818) 804-8131