Do you ever feel like you're talking, but no one is listening? It’s like you’re repeating yourself all day, and then—just when you think they got it—the same person you were talking to asks, "What did you just say?" As parents, this can feel frustrating. We assume our kids aren’t paying attention because they’re uninterested in what we say. But what if I told you your children feel the same way about you?
do you truly listen to your child?
When your child speaks, do you genuinely listen? Or do you hear just a few words, assume you already know what they’re going to say, and stop paying attention? The truth is, communication breakdowns happen both ways.
So why does this happen? Often, it’s because we choose moments that are convenient for us—when we’re multitasking, distracted by our phones, or when there are too many people around. Other times, we expect immediate responses, talking as soon as a thought crosses our mind without considering the best timing. And sometimes, we aren’t even clear on what we want to say, yet we still expect our kids to understand us perfectly.
The result? Frustration—for both you and your child. Instead of feeling heard, supported, and valued, conversations turn into moments of misunderstanding and disconnection. But the good news is, this can be fixed! With practice, you can transform how you communicate and strengthen your relationship with your child.
Simple Strategies to Improve Communication
Want to make sure your child feels heard and listens to you in return? Try these techniques:
Give Your Full Attention – When your child is talking to you, put aside all other activities. Imagine you’re going to be quizzed on what they said later. This will help you focus and show them that what they’re saying matters to you.
Choose the Right Moment – If you have something important to discuss, set aside a quiet space where you can talk without distractions. This helps ensure your message is clear and received with the attention it deserves.
Write It Down – If misunderstandings often arise over household rules or expectations, don’t just talk about them—write them down. This ensures everyone understands not just the words, but the intent behind them.
By applying these simple techniques, you can start building a stronger connection with your child today. Communication isn’t just about talking—it’s about truly listening and creating a space where both you and your child feel understood, valued, and respected.
Give it a try and see the difference!
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