Learn How to Listen to Your Child Actively

Communicating with our children can really be a big challenge for all of us. Most of the time, we feel like they are not listening to what we are saying. However, there is one basic skill that you need to master if you want to be successful at parenting namely – communication and part of communication is listening.

It is important that you listen to your child’s thoughts, views, feelings and opinions. It does not mean that since they are still kids you disregard their views. You need to take time to actively listen to them.

It has always been natural for parents to react on what your kids would say instead of responding appropriately after they are done expressing themselves. As a parent, your responsibility is to guide and direct not dictate your kids what they ought to do. You should practice to be more receptive and accepting of their immature views.

They have openly and honestly express their feelings and for that you need to appreciate that they trust you enough for them to tell you what is inside their mind. They should not fear for any repercussion because it is not your responsibility to pass judgment.

Their opinions, no matter how farfetched and untrue, are still valid and worthy to be considered. You need to sit down and openly talk to your child and make him see your points and views without trampling his own. You need to calmly make him realize things slowly.

It is imperative that you need to set aside what you are doing for a while and talk with him with undivided attention. Encourage him more to talk about what he thinks and when he is done, appreciate his thoughts. Do not be carried away with your instincts to avoid any miscommunication.

This is the way for your child will talk to you and run to you when he has something to say. This only means that he looks up to you for advice and trusts you to understand what he has to say.