Creative methods of communicating with young children are discussed. In order to communicate through talk, adults must realize that children have a "secret world" with their own language and reasoning and must respect it. Self awareness, patience, understanding, and consistency are necessary for adults to truly communicate with children through talk. "Toy talk" is useful for reducing adult dominance and approaching the child on his own level. Sociodramatic play gives children practice in interacting with other children and thus improves his ability to communicate verbally. Children often respond more willingly and communicate more easily through singing instead of talking, but adults should not attempt to change songs children create. The Mutual Storytelling Technique is an effective projective method of communication, enabling children to use one of their favorite modes of communication and adults to introduce new ideas without being coercive. Non-verbal communication--through movement and music-- is also effective with young children. Communication through reading books can be effective--if the appropriate books are chosen, if they are read as though the thing is happening, and if adult dominance is reduced. Children must be free to ask questions. Communicating with the silent child is especially difficult but can be accomplished, perhaps with a non-verbal method. (KM)