The only way we can begin to understand our children is to learn who they are and in order to this we need to practice some basic communication skills:
1) listen intently. The only way to know what your child is saying is to listen to his words and know what he is trying to communicate to you.
2) ask clear questions. There is no greater enemy to good communication that making assumptions about another person. To avoid that, ask questions to clarify your child’s thoughts, feeling, and actions, Questions show we are interested in them.
3) get rid of distractions. Do everything you can to reduce distractions that may make it difficult to hear your child. TV, radio, computer time can interfere with quality family time. maybe even leave the house and find a quiet place.
4) share your own feelings. Good communication is more than the facts. Talk about how you feel so he will learn how to discuss his own feelings.
Dads model healthy communication for their children. How do you communicate with yours?
Any thoughts? Email Brian.
