Das unsichtbare Kind – Nonverbaler Ansatz zur Identifizierung von schüchternen und sozial ängstlichen Kindern [The Invisible Child: Nonverbal approach to identifying shy and socially anxious children]

Results from studies indicate that movement-based observation is an important addition to existing diagnostic tools in primary schools (Gehrs, 2015). Children reveal their personality through movements, which suggests that shy and socially anxious children can be identified through observable nonverbal expression. Our goal is to sensitise teachers, special education teachers, school social workers, school psychologists, educationalists, school administrators and psychological and therapeutic professional groups to non-verbal, movement-based expression. Being able to read children's non-verbal expression should help professionals identify shy and socially anxious children and better understand them and their needs. This allows children to be better supported within the class and, if necessary, to be referred on for clarification and/or additional support offers. Observable, movement-based non-verbal expression is a low-threshold approach that can be easily integrated into everyday life.