Module 4.2

4.2 Professional Communication with Children 

Police officers often meet children when they are frightened, confused or unsure what is happening. Many children may already mistrust the police or fear punishment. The way an officer speaks and behaves can either calm the child and support protection  or increase fear and harm. Therefore, communication must always be respectful, simple, and appropriate to the child’s age and situation.

4.2.1 General Rules for All Interactions

Police officers should always:

  • speak calmly and respectfully, avoiding raised voices, threats or harsh tone, so that the child feels safe and able to speak.
  • use simple, age-appropriate language, avoiding legal or technical terms that the child will not understand.
  • introduce yourself and explain your role, so the child knows why the police are involved and what you are there to do.
  • explain clearly what will happen next, as uncertainty can increase fear and silence.
  • protect privacy at all times, avoiding questioning in public areas or in front of unrelated persons.

Communication by Situation

When the Child is a Victim

  • prioritise safety and reassurance first, before asking questions or collecting details.
  • listen patiently and without judgement, allowing the child to speak at their own pace.
  • keep questions simple and limited to what is necessary, to avoid distress or repeated reliving of trauma.
  • avoid blame-focused language, such as implying fault or responsibility on the child.
  • ensure privacy and dignity, especially in cases of sexual or severe physical abuse.

When the Child is a Witness

  • explain briefly why you are asking questions, so the child understands the purpose.
  • use neutral, open-ended questions, allowing the child to describe events in their own words.
  • avoid leading or suggestive questioning, which may confuse or pressure the child.
  • remain patient if the child is unsure or frightened, giving them time to respond.
  • ensure the child is free from intimidation, including from suspects or other adults.

When the Child is in Need of Protection

  • speak gently and respectfully, avoiding an interrogation style or accusatory tone.
  • first check the child’s immediate needs, such as safety, food, rest, medical attention, or protection from adults.
  • avoid threatening language or warnings, as many children may already fear authority.
  • do not criminalise survival behaviour, such as sleeping outdoors, working, or running away.
  • explain clearly that the purpose is to help and protect them, not to punish.

When the Child is alleged to Have Committed an Offence

  • treat the child with dignity and neutrality, remembering they remain a child first under law.
  • explain rights and procedures in simple language, ensuring the child understands what is happening.
  • avoid force, coercion, humiliation or pressure, especially during questioning.
  • keep communication calm and professional, even if the child is defensive or distressed.
  • remember that detention must be a last resort, and for the shortest possible time.

4.2.2 Special Care

Extra sensitivity is required when communicating with:

  • very young children, who may not fully understand events or police procedures.
  • traumatised children, who may remain silent, confused or fearful.
  • girls and gender-diverse children, particularly in sensitive or abuse-related cases.
  • children with disabilities, where communication may need to be adapted.
  • children facing language or cultural barriers, where translation or support may be needed.
  • Where appropriate, a female police officer should lead engagement with girls and young children.

How to Conduct This Session

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