Talk, Signal, Play: How Communication Builds Teamwork and Life Skills
Peer reviewed by Dr. Peter Rawlek, MD & Scott Rollo, PhD
Imagine playing a team game where no one talks, signals, or listens to each other. It would be confusing and frustrating, right? Good communication is what turns a group of people into a team. It helps everyone understand the rules, stay organized, and work toward a shared goal. Whether you’re passing a basketball, planning a dance routine, or solving a group challenge, communication is the key to success—not just in games, but in life too.
Why Is Communication So Important?
Communication creates a shared understanding. When everyone knows the goals, rules, and plans, things run smoothly. It builds teamwork, prevents mistakes, and makes activities more fun for everyone.
For example:
Calling “Mine!” in volleyball stops teammates from bumping into each other.
Using hand signals in baseball helps the pitcher and catcher work together.
Listening carefully during a new game helps everyone stay safe.
Different Ways We Communicate in Games
Verbal Communication
Speaking clearly to share ideas or instructions.
Example: Shouting “Pass!” in soccer or giving directions during a group challenge.
Non-Verbal Communication
Using gestures, body language, or facial expressions.
Example: Nodding to show you’re ready or giving a thumbs-up to encourage a teammate.
Visual Cues
Pointing or signaling where you want the ball or where a teammate should move.
Example: Pointing to an open player during floor hockey.
Active Listening
Paying attention, making eye contact, and responding properly.
Example: Listening to the coach’s plan and then doing your part.
When you use all these ways together, playing becomes smoother and more enjoyable.
Communication Helps Teams Work Together
Many games need players to cooperate closely. Communication helps with:
Encouragement: Cheering on teammates and giving positive feedback.
Solving problems: Talking calmly to fix disagreements, like who goes next.
Including everyone: Making sure quieter players get involved.
Knowing your role: Sometimes leading, sometimes following—good communication helps with both.
Life Lessons From Communication
Communication skills don’t just help in sports, they help in everyday life too. Think about these examples:
In school group projects, talking and listening clearly helps your team finish the work well and on time.
With friends, sharing your feelings and paying attention to others helps build stronger friendships and avoid misunderstandings.
Just like in games, clear communication in life helps people work together, solve problems, and support each other.
Time to Reflect
How do you usually communicate when playing games or doing activities?
Can you remember a time when good communication helped your team or group?
What’s one thing you could do to get better at listening or signaling during games and in life?
The Bottom Line
Good communication makes games and activities safer, smoother, and way more fun. Whether you’re using words, signals, or just listening closely, communicating helps you connect with teammates, solve problems, and reach goals together. Next time you’re playing or working with others, ask yourself:
“Am I helping the team by communicating clearly?”