Counselor's Gazzette
May-June 2014
Cinco de Mayo Celebration @ Central Elementary
Communication Tips for Parents & Educators
Be available for your children
Start the conversation; it lets your kids know you care about what's happening in their lives.
Learn about your children's interests — for example, favorite music and activities — and show interest in them.
Initiate conversations by sharing what you have been thinking about rather than beginning a conversation with a question.
Let your kids know you're listening
When your children are talking about concerns, stop whatever you are doing and listen.
Listen to their point of view, even if it's difficult to hear.
Let them complete their point before you respond.
Repeat what you heard them say to ensure that you understand them correctly.
Respond in a way your children will hear
Soften strong reactions; kids will tune you out if you appear angry or defensive.
Express your opinion without putting down theirs; acknowledge that it's okay to disagree.
Focus on your child's feelings rather than your own during your conversation.
Remember:
Ask your children what they may want or need from you in a conversation, such as advice, simply listening, help in dealing with feelings or help solving a problem.
Kids learn by imitating. Most often, they will follow your lead in how they deal with anger, solve problems and work through difficult feelings.
Talk to your children — don't lecture, criticize, threaten or say hurtful things.
Kids learn from their own choices. As long as the consequences are not dangerous, don't feel you have to step in. *
*Source: APA