Effective communication helps build strong connections with your child, but it can sometimes be challenging. Here are some tips to help make your conversations more impactful.
Be Present and Available
- Notice when your child is most likely to open up—like at bedtime, during meals, or car rides—and be ready to listen.
- Initiate conversations to show your interest in their lives.
- Schedule one-on-one time each week with each child and keep it free from distractions.
- Learn about their hobbies and interests, such as music or favorite activities, and show genuine curiosity.
- Share your thoughts or experiences to start a dialogue, instead of always leading with questions.
Practice Active Listening
- Give them your full attention by pausing what you’re doing when they talk about something important.
- Show interest without being overbearing.
- Listen to their perspective, even if it’s difficult to hear.
- Let them finish before you respond.
- Reflect back what you hear to ensure clarity and understanding.
Respond Thoughtfully
- Keep reactions calm and measured—strong emotions can cause them to shut down.
- Share your opinions respectfully without dismissing theirs; acknowledge that it’s okay to disagree.
- Avoid turning conversations into debates. Instead, say, "I understand you feel differently, but here’s my perspective."
- Focus on their feelings and concerns instead of centering the conversation on your own.
By making communication a priority, you'll foster stronger connections and help your child feel supported and understood.
Parenting is hard work…
Open communication is essential for building a healthy connection with your children. However, parenting—especially during the teen years—can be tough, and maintaining that bond can feel challenging amidst life’s many demands. If difficulties persist over time, seeking support from a mental health professional can provide helpful guidance and strategies for strengthening your relationship.
Keys to Effective Communication
Ask What They Need: Before jumping in, check if they want advice, a listening ear, help managing emotions, or support in solving a problem.
Model Healthy Behavior: Children often imitate how you handle anger, solve problems, and cope with emotions. Set a positive example.
Focus on Dialogue: Engage in conversations rather than giving lectures, criticizing, making threats, or using hurtful language.
Allow Learning from Choices: Let children experience the natural consequences of their decisions when it's safe to do so. It helps build independence and problem-solving skills.
Encourage Full Sharing: Kids may start by revealing only a small part of what's on their mind. Listen closely, show encouragement, and they'll likely open up more over time.