Can gestures really help children communicate better? Gestures — movements of the hands, arms, or body — aren’t just “extra actions.” They help explain ideas, make conversations more interesting, and help others understand what is being said.
Children benefit from gestures because they provide another way to communicate when words are hard to find. There are certain situations where gestures can be very important, such as during learning at school and for children on the autism spectrum, where communication can be more challenging.
Gestures can serve many different purposes. Some gestures show actions or objects, such as pretending to brush teeth. Others point to something or help show the rhythm of speech. Some represent feelings or abstract ideas, such as making a heart shape with hands to show love.
These examples show just how important gestures can be, and the next section explains each in more detail.
Understanding the Research
It’s helpful to look at research on how gestures work in different situations. The sections below explain important findings and what they mean for our children’s development.
Gestures across cultures and social rules
Gestures can mean different things depending on culture. A thumbs-up, for example, shows approval in some countries but can be considered rude in others.
Children also learn social rules through gestures, such as waving hello or showing respect in certain ways. For example, in Japan, bowing is a common way to convey respect. Parents and teachers who are aware of these differences may guide children to communicate appropriately in various social settings.
Gestures in autism communication
Children on the autism spectrum may use gestures differently from other kids. They might struggle to coordinate gestures with words, or their gestures might not always match what they are trying to say.
However, gestures can still give children with autism another way to express themselves when words are difficult to use. Even if the gestures don’t perfectly match their speech, they act as a bridge so that those around them can understand what they want, think, or feel. This can reduce frustration and make communication smoother.
Gestures for learning at school
Another way gestures help children is in the classroom. Teachers who use gestures while explaining concepts can make learning more engaging.
For instance, showing steps in math problems with the use of their hands or demonstrating historical events helps children visualize the ideas. Gestures also help children remember what they learn.
Practical Strategies for Parents and Caregivers
Being able to express thoughts clearly is important for children and teens when interacting with others. Practicing gestures at home can help children strengthen these skills. In fact, this can boost their confidence in both verbal and nonverbal communication.
Here are some tips:
Demonstrate gestures during conversation
Use your hands to show actions, directions, or ideas as you talk. For instance, when giving instructions, act out each step or point to the objects you’re talking about. Children pick up on gestures by watching and copying adults, which helps them link movements with words.
Practice nonverbal communication in daily activities
Look for tiny moments where gestures can encourage your child to communicate. Opportunities may include:
Setting the table - Point to each item (“plates here, cups here”) and allow your child to point or gesture to show they understand.
During cleanup - Use hand motions to show “pick up” or “put away,” and invite your child to copy.
In the morning - Gesture for actions like brushing teeth, putting on shoes, or packing a backpack.
Learn about gestures from different cultures.
Explain that the same gesture can mean different things in other countries. For example, a thumbs-up is positive in some places but can be rude in others. In China, placing a hand on the heart can signal a sincere promise, which may not have the same meaning in other parts of the world.
The authors point out that communication isn’t just about the words we say — our hands and body movements help add clarity. The next time someone is speaking, it’s worth noticing how much their hands add to what they’re saying.
