Body language is often an overlooked but incredibly powerful tool in private school interviews. While we tend to focus on rehearsing answers, refining talking points, and preparing for likely questions, non-verbal communication plays an equally crucial role in leaving a strong impression. Whether it’s your child being assessed in a one-on-one interview or you as a parent engaging in a family discussion with the admissions team, how you present yourself physically speaks volumes before a single word is exchanged.

Private school interviewers are trained to observe body language. They look for signs of confidence, openness, and genuine engagement in both children and their parents. A strong handshake, natural eye contact, an attentive posture, and a warm smile can set the stage for a positive experience. On the other hand, fidgeting, crossed arms, or avoiding eye contact can unintentionally create an impression of nervousness or disinterest.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key body language tips for both parents and children, helping you ensure your non-verbal cues match the thoughtful preparation you’ve put into your verbal answers.

1. First Impressions Start Before You Speak

First impressions are made within the first few seconds of meeting someone. When you and your child walk into the interview room, you’re already communicating through your body language.

For your child: Encourage them to walk in confidently, with their head up, shoulders relaxed, and a warm smile on their face. A confident walk not only creates a strong impression but also helps them feel more assured internally.

For parents: Your body language sets the tone for your child. Walk in calmly, smile warmly at the interviewer, and maintain a relaxed but confident posture. If appropriate, offer a firm but friendly handshake.

Remember, a calm and composed entry can immediately create a positive and welcoming atmosphere.

2. The Power of Eye Contact

Eye contact is one of the simplest yet most impactful aspects of body language. It shows confidence, respect, and attentiveness.

For your child: Teach them to make natural eye contact when speaking or listening. Looking away too frequently can come across as nervousness or disinterest. However, constant staring can feel uncomfortable, so it’s all about finding a natural balance.

For parents: Maintain eye contact when speaking with the admissions officer. When your child is being addressed, look at them attentively to show support. Avoid looking at your phone, watch, or glancing around the room—it can signal boredom or impatience.

Practising eye contact at home during casual conversations or mock interviews can help both you and your child feel more comfortable.

3. Posture: Sit Up, Stay Open

Posture is a silent indicator of confidence and attentiveness. Slouching or leaning too far back can suggest a lack of engagement while sitting stiffly might come across as overly nervous.

For your child: Teach them to sit up straight, with their feet flat on the ground and hands resting calmly on their lap or table. A relaxed but upright posture conveys focus and respect.

For parents: Avoid crossing your arms, as this can make you appear defensive or closed off. Instead, keep your hands relaxed on your lap or lightly resting on the chair’s armrests.

Good posture isn’t about sitting rigidly—it’s about appearing engaged and comfortable.

4. Facial Expressions: Keep Them Warm and Natural

Your face often communicates emotions more loudly than words. Nervousness, disinterest, or discomfort can unintentionally show through facial expressions.

For your child: Encourage natural, warm smiles when appropriate. If they’re unsure about an answer or need a moment to think, teach them to smile politely and take a breath before responding.

For parents: Maintain an approachable and calm facial expression. A serious or overly intense expression can make the conversation feel tense, while a relaxed face and a natural smile can put everyone at ease.

Practise smiling naturally in front of a mirror or while role-playing interview scenarios at home.

5. Hands and Gestures: Purposeful, Not Distracting

Hands can either support communication or become a distraction. While gesturing naturally while speaking can enhance answers, fidgeting can weaken the impact of what’s being said.

For your child: Teach them to use their hands naturally when answering questions, but remind them to avoid fidgeting with their clothes, hair, or objects on the table. Hands can rest calmly in their lap when not in use.

For parents: Subtle hand gestures can reinforce your words, but excessive waving or constant movement can distract from the conversation. Avoid drumming your fingers or clutching onto objects unnecessarily.

A good tip is to keep hands lightly clasped together when not actively gesturing.

6. Active Listening: Show Engagement Through Body Language

Active listening is a key part of non-verbal communication. It’s not just about hearing the words but showing that you’re fully present in the conversation.

For your child: Teach them to nod occasionally when someone is speaking and to respond with expressions like “That makes sense” or “I understand.” Encourage them to focus fully on the speaker rather than looking around the room.

For parents: Show engagement by leaning slightly forward when someone is speaking, nodding when appropriate, and maintaining good eye contact. Avoid interrupting or looking distracted.

Active listening builds rapport and shows genuine interest in the conversation.

7. Avoid Nervous Habits

Nervous habits, like tapping feet, biting nails, or fidgeting with clothing, can be distracting and signal anxiety.

For your child: Help them identify their nervous habits during practice interviews. Encourage subtle coping techniques, such as pressing their thumb and finger together under the table or taking a slow breath before answering.

For parents: Be mindful of your own habits—checking your watch, fiddling with a pen, or glancing at your phone can all convey impatience or disinterest.

Addressing these habits before the interview can significantly improve non-verbal communication.

8. Match the Interviewer’s Energy and Tone

Mirroring the interviewer’s energy, tone, and pace can create a sense of connection and mutual respect.

For your child: Teach them to observe the interviewer’s energy and respond accordingly. If the interviewer is friendly and conversational, they can match that tone.

For parents: Follow the same principle. If the conversation is formal, maintain a professional tone. If it’s more relaxed, allow your personality to shine through naturally.

Matching energy shows adaptability and helps create a smoother conversation.

9. The Farewell: End with Confidence

The way you and your child exit the interview is just as important as the entrance.

For your child: Teach them to stand up confidently, make eye contact, smile, and thank the interviewer politely for their time.

For parents: Mirror the same professionalism—thank the interviewer warmly, offer a handshake if appropriate, and leave calmly without rushing.

The farewell is your final opportunity to leave a strong impression.

10. Practice at Home: Build Confidence Together

The best way to improve body language is through regular practice.

Set up mock interview scenarios at home where your child can practise posture, eye contact, and gestures. Provide gentle, constructive feedback and role-play scenarios where both of you model confident and positive body language.

Strong body language doesn’t mean being perfect—it means being confident, engaged, and genuine. When your child walks into their private school interview with a warm smile, attentive eyes, and composed posture, they’ll already have made an excellent first impression—long before they even begin to speak.