How to Effectively Communicate With Your Kids
There are numerous things that go into establishing, and keeping the lines of communication operating properly. Before a baby can understand speech parents must communicate to it feelings of security and love. If this continues as the child grows, then this will help to strengthen the lines of communication. Of course this is not an easy takes. One thing that you must do at a young age is encourage your child to be expressive. Children have a need to learn, and they crave the attention and time of their parents.
Child may burst into the room and excitedly begin relating some event to his father or mother. If the parent cuts the child off with an irritated “Quiet down!” or makes some other angry expression, the child’s enthusiasm may be crushed. Childish chatter may not seem to convey much. But, by encouraging natural expression from your children, you may prevent them later in life from keeping to themselves things that you want and need to know. Politeness and courtesy contribute to good communication. In order for children to learn to be polite their parents have to first set a good example for them to follow. However if children are habitually cut off, or continually corrected and ridiculed by their parents, they are more likely to become withdrawn or go talk to someone’s about their problem. As your child grows older the more that this will become the case, especially in their teenage years.
Another thing you will want to keep in mind is to be patient and have self-control. Since most kids are inclined to be impetuous, they may blurt out whatever is on their minds, maybe even interrupting your adult conversation. Instead of just instantly rejecting them or casting them aside it would be better to listen politely, and kindly remind them to be polite. This will give them a good example of self control to follow. I have tried this method with my own kids, and it has proven to be very helpful. You want your kids to seek you out when they have a problem, or need some guidance. For my kids they usually tell me about any problems they are having at night before they go to bed. We have a routine of story time, and then I ask them if there is anything they would like to talk about.
Adolescence is a very difficult time for your children. Their bodies are undergoing changes, and these can affect their emotions. Your approach to their problems may have to change from time to time. It’s also very important for parents to take the initiative to start a conversation. This will not be an easy task for those who have not kept the lines of communication open with their children. When your child finally does become a teenager you want to really take the time to understand their needs and wants. It will not be the same as when they were young children. Think back to when you were young and try to put yourself in their shoes. Most young adults want to feel needed and appreciated. You should also expect to have some measure of resistance to restrictions that will need to be implemented as they approach their teenager years. Do not let your authority be ignored or overruled. Keep in mind this is for your children’s own good. When problems do arise it is important that you try to understand and not make major issues out of minor things.
Also do not let another person’s opinion affect the way you raise your children. You know your child best, and no one should be able to communicate with them better than you. You have the power and control over your children, but it must be reinforced by knowledge and understanding. You will make mistakes, every parent does. What is important is how you handle these mistakes.
