Let’s Talk!
We know that all children are different and many children need a lot of encouragement and positive feedback to get them to communicate. Others will be eager to talk to you at every possible opportunity, even if you are busy juggling chores. This means that they want you to stop and listen.
Let’s start at the very beginning!
If you start to communicate with your children from an early age, you will get into the habit of openly talking to each other. This will be very useful as they develop into teenagers. They will become very comfortable sharing everything with you!
Your Five a Day! Top Tips get your children talking
Set up a fixed daily time to talk and listen to your child. Make it part of their day just like having breakfast. Tell them your daily talk time can be about everything and anything. Tell them they should never be SCARED to share something they might have done wrong. Some children are scared to open up to parents for fear for immediate punishment or that parents won’t understand. Once children start to open up, they will realise that parents will listen and be understanding. This is where a closer bond is formed.
Speak their language, a language they understand. Children don’t ‘’always get’’ what parents mean!
Show you are actively listening. Repeat what your child has said ‘’So your teacher said you read beautifully in class’’ Always give good eye contact and show emotion.
React with real interest! ‘’You really did that… ‘’ Carry on tell me more ..’’ Really …’’
Avoid negative criticism! Never show anger about something they have done. Work together and explain why you don’t want them to do something again. Work on ways to resolve problems and conflicts together. Always be honest and tell them you have full trust in them.
Communication is Key!