Helping all children become happy learners
Eye Contact
EYe Contact
Eye contact is when we look at another person's eyes.
Eye contact is important during a conversation because it lets the other person know that we are listening or talking to them. Most people, we talk to, like it when we make eye contact with them.
Eye contact may sometimes feel uncomfortable. This can happen when we feel anxious, sad or afraid.
Eye contact can also feel uncomfortable if we stare. Looking away from time to time can make it more comfortable.
Most of the time eye contact is OK. Sometimes it may feel not OK but it is important to try. Looking at the person then away can often help.
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Eye Contact With Adults
Eye contact is looking at someone's eyes while you talk or listen to them.
Eye contact is important with everyone we talk to. Most adults expect you to look at them while they are speaking. They may get cross or upset if they think that you are not listening. Making eye contact helps to show that you are listening.
When adults ask us questions they like to see that you are making eye contact. It is OK to look away while you think about what you will say back to the adult.
Making eye contact with adults can feel uncomfortable sometimes. This is OK but it is still important to try. This shows that you are listening. Looking away while you think is also OK.
I can make Eye Contact
Eye contact is when I look at someone’s eyes.
Eye contact helps people know when someone is listening or talking to them. Most people like eye contact when they are with other people.
I can sometimes feel uncomfortable when I make eye contact. That is okay. But I need to be brave and try harder. Otherwise other people may feel uncomfortable.
When I am talking to someone I can look at their eyes. This helps them know I am talking to them. I can also show that I am listening to them by looking at their eyes. If it feels uncomfortable I can look away for a second or two and then look back.
Making eye contact is mostly okay. When it does not feel okay I can still try. Looking at the person then away can often help.
Notes on creating your own personalised social story:
Use the above examples to create your own personalised social story for the child. If you need to modify the language to support younger children ensure that the exact meaning intended remains clear and unambiguous. You may want to add photographs or pictures to illustrate the meaning or provide motivation to use. Alternatively, print out versions of the social stories are available below.
Eye Contact
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Eye Contact with Adults
I Can Make Eye Contact
