Communicating Effectively with Children
Communicating Effectively with Children
Knowing how to effectively communicate with your child is one of the most important aspects of raising a child. While children often don’t do as they’re told, there is often a reason why a child won’t follow instructions. Take the time to listen to your child and indentify what they specifically want, need or are feeling. You will often be able to quickly resolve the situation so both you and your child are happy.
Listening to Your Child
When talking to a child there are for key parts of listening effectively:
- Making eye contact. Come down to your child’s level when they are talking. This will allow you to see your child’s emotions and act accordingly. You should give your child your full attention when they are speaking.
- Mindful Body Language. Watch your own body language when your child is talking. Stay open and positive until your child finishes speaking.
- “Being Heard” Gestures. As your child is speaking, nod or respond appropriately so he/she knows you are listening.
- Let your child finish before you speak. Don’t cut your child off. Wait until he/she has finished before commenting or offering suggestions.
Clear Communication with your Child
Just as it is important to listen, it is equally as important to communicate effectively with your child. Children don’t always understand what you are asking them to do, so be as clear as you can. One of the best strategies is to ask your child to repeat what you just said. You should also avoid giving your child too many instructions at once. Also, you should use language that is appropriate for your child. Speak to young children in clear, short sentences and avoid baby talk. It’s also important to positively guide your child when talking to them, for example, outline what you want a child to do rather than chastising them for bad behaviour.
It’s all about Respect
When you talk about your child, to others or to the child, speak as you would wish to be spoken about or spoken to. Avoid putting a child down and praise when a child deserves praise. If you have more than one child, treat each child as an individual and don’t expect the same level of achievement from all children.
By implementing the above practices you will be able to develop a better relationship with your child. Your child will feel understood and you will feel that your child has understood you.
Sources
John Gray, Children are from Heaven Sydney: Pan Macmillan Australia, 1999
Myra Grisdale, Janet Cater and Michael Morton-Evans, authors of Why Won’t my Child Listen? [Sydney: Simon & Schuster, 2005]