Communication is arguably one of the most significant and important aspects of a relationship. How we choose to engage with individuals in our life will influence how fulfilling, successful, and long-lasting those connections are. The relationship between a parent and child is no different.
Children are always attempting to communicate with us through their behaviors and words, even if we may not always be aware of it. According to Matthew Teeple, it is our responsibility as parents to make an effort to grasp what they are attempting to express and to respond in a way that satisfies their needs.
How to Talk to Your Children per Matthew Teeple
Active Hearing
Active listening is one of the finest ways to achieve this. This is paying close attention to what your child communicates to you, both orally and non-verbally, and then responding in a way that demonstrates your comprehension. Here are some pointers on how to listen actively:
- Establish eye contact and your youngster will see that you are paying attention to them thanks to this.
- Don’t speak up in the middle of your child’s sentence. Let them finish speaking before you react.
- Reiterate what you heard as this demonstrates your attentiveness and clarifies any points you may have missed, Matthew Teeple notes.
- Ask questions to demonstrate your interest in what your youngster is saying.
- Validate their feelings by letting your child know that even if you disagree with their behavior, its okay for them to feel the way they do.
- Avoid giving lectures; instead, offer advice and motivation.
Active listening is a skill that you can develop that will improve your relationship with your child and help you better understand them.
Active Verbal Exchange Is Crucial according to Matthew Teeple
Matthew Teeple thinks there are other ways to promote communication with your child besides active listening.
- Schedule time each day for talking: Remind your child that they can come to you at any moment to talk about anything that’s on their mind.
- Set a good example: Being a good listener yourself will help you to demonstrate to your child the value of communication.
- Use “I” statements: Instead of using “you” words when speaking to your youngster, use “I” statements. Try expressing, “I feel like you aren’t hearing me out,” rather than, “You never listen to me!”
- Refrain from assuming you know what your youngster is thinking or feeling. Listen to their response after immediately addressing them.
- Respect their privacy: Treat your child’s privacy with the same respect that you would expect for your own. Avoid probing into topics they don’t want to discuss.
Conclusion
Matthew Teeple points out that communication is a two-way street, so it is important to remember that in order for your child to feel comfortable communicating with you, you must also be willing to communicate with them. Share your own thoughts and feelings with your child, and encourage them to do the same with you. By creating an open and honest environment, you will foster a stronger relationship with your child.
