Module 10: Communicating with Parents and Involving Communities

"Health workers not only give messages to parents but also receive messages from them. In both cases, communication takes place only when the messages are understood."

Part of the World Health Organization (WHO)'s Immunization in Practice - Learning Activities Manual, this module focuses on communication between parents (or clients) and health workers and offers concrete suggestions for involving communities in immunisation programmes. It is a practical document that includes the following topics:

1. "Communication in general
2. Addressing the concerns of clients first
3. The five essential messages about immunization
4. Communicating with groups
5. Involving the community in planning immunization services"

Figures included in the resource focus on: (i) a group discussion, and (ii) health workers giving a play.

One sample insight: "If you ask 'Do you understand?' and someone answers 'Yes' you cannot be sure that he or she really does understand. If you ask 'When will you bring your child for his next immunization' and someone answers with the right date, you will know that he or she has understood you."