communicating with your child

  • Uphold eye contact
  •  Eliminate distractions
  •  Work through one problem at a time
  •  Be understanding, not judgmental
  •  Refrain from lecturing
  •  Avoid making interruptions
  •  Make suggestions, but do not necessarily tell your child what to do
  • Use "I" statements
  •  Communicate with creative expression
  •  Refrain from correcting grammar during conversation
  •  Communicate the positive
  •  Recognize and accept your child's emotions
  •  Pay attention to your child's body language and tone of voice
  •  Let your child know you are there for him/her
  •  Try to plan talking to your children early in the evening so you are not tired
  •  Do not ask why, ask what
  •  Help your child come to his/her own realization of his/her problem
  •  Do not use put downs