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In the past we have addressed this topic and will continue to in the future. I can’t stress enough the need to have real meaningful conversations with our kids. Their peers have they ear all day long, then the teacher and then the TV. So how much time do we have to talk with them and what are we talking about? There are so many important issues to discuss with your child…drugs, dating, sex, global warming just to name a few. But what about the more important issues. The stuff that really matters to them. Maybe it’s the hot new video game or latest fashion, the ball game the other night or what the plans are for the weekend. We need to take the time to have the small talk so that the lines of communication are open for the more serious discussions. If you start now, it will hopefully be much easier down the road.
Here are some things to think about when talking with your child, pre-teen, or teen:
What is your tone of voice? When you are talking to your son or daughter, how do you sound? Encouraging? Interested? Angry? Bored?
What is your body language? How do you look to your son or daughter? Try to sit or stand in a relaxed position. Don’t look “all tense.” Face your son or daughter. Look at him or her when you are talking and when you are listening.
What does your face look like? You say a lot when you smile, frown, roll your eyes, or tighten your jaw like you are angry. When you talk with your son or daughter make eye contact.
Are you listening, really listening? It sounds simple, but listening is very important. The best listening is called “active listening.” It means making eye contact, nodding your head in understanding, and having positive facial expressions.