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Communicating with your child

Communicating with Your Child

As a parent, it can be easy to talk to your child- giving instructions, teaching them right from wrong, and setting boundaries.

It’s important, however, to make sure that you also take the time to listen.

When you listen to your child, you’ll get to know them.

You’ll learn about their friends, their favorite activities, and what makes them happy or sad.

Good communication helps you and your child build a close bond.

While you’re parenting, be sure to see your child as a person to be nurtured and lived, and be sure to talk and listen respectfully.

Communicate Well Today

· Consider explaining your decision to your child the next time you tell him no; then listen to his perspective about the situation, without changing your mind. Doing so may help both of you better understand each other.

· Take time every night, even with your older child, to sit at her bedside and ask about the best and worst things that happened during her day.

· Take your children seriously when they share fears, concerns, or embarrassing moments with you. It doesn’t mean you have to fix the situation; just listen and let them know you are there if they want advice or suggestions.

The 4 Parenting Styles
Permissive
  •  Child-driven
  • Rarely gives or enforces rules
  • Overindulges child to avoid conflict

Authoritative
  • Solves problems together with the child
  • Sets clear rules and expectations
  • Open communication and natural consequences

Neglectful
  • Uninvolved or absent
  • Provides little nurturance or guidance
  • Indifferent to child’s social-emotional and behavioral needs

Authoritarian
  • Parent-driven
  • Sets strict rules and punishment
  • One-way communication, with little consideration of the child’s social-emotional and behavioral needs
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