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Professional micro-gestures


Welcome education professionals!

This Mindly highlights the central role of professional micro-gestures in building the educational relationship. Looks, postures, listening gestures, intonation, and space management constitute a powerful non-verbal language that influences the classroom climate, emotional safety, and student engagement. Research in social psychology and neuroeducation shows that these subtle signals contribute to emotional co-regulation and support learning. By developing a fine awareness of their micro-gestures, professionals can prevent tensions, enhance motivation, and establish a calm authority. Non-verbal communication thus becomes a true pedagogical tool in the service of a respectful and secure relationship.

Key words of the Mindly

Verbal ≠ Non-verbal

The verbal: the words. The non-verbal: everything that accompanies or replaces the words. The non-verbal plays a major role in communication with children. They remember your body language more than what is said.

Arms crossed

Arms crossed - what does this gesture say in non-verbal communication: the gesture of crossed arms is highly symbolic in non-verbal communication.
It can be interpreted in different ways depending on the context, the general attitude of the person, and the emotional situation. Crossing arms is not a neutral gesture; it is often perceived as a sign of distance or closure.

Tone of voice

The tone of voice is a key element of non-verbal communication that profoundly influences how a message is received and interpreted. A teacher who speaks in a monotone voice without modulation limits the attention of the students.
The tone of voice strongly influences engagement and understanding.

Micro-gesture

Micro-gesture: small movement, big communication.

A micro-gesture is a very small involuntary or very discreet movement of the face or body. It often conveys an emotion or a hidden thought that the person does not verbalise.
These gestures are sometimes imperceptible at first glance, but very revealing. Simply leaning towards a struggling student can enhance their sense of recognition. This micro-gesture creates closeness and shows availability.

Welcoming posture

Welcoming posture: a powerful tool in communication and relationships.
The welcoming posture is a bodily and behavioural attitude that conveys a clear message to the other: "I am available, open, and ready to listen without judgment". From the moment the young people enter, adopt an open posture: feet grounded, arms relaxed, shoulders loose, gaze steady.

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The PDF to download

Tips, recommendations, and resources


Click here!

The PDF to download

Tips, recommendations, and resources


Click here!