Posts Tagged communication

Parenting Tip: Try to understand how your child thinks and feels

May 10, 2009

Try to understand how your child thinks and feels.

When you understand how your child thinks and feels at different stages of their development you are much better equipped to respond to challenging situations in a positive and constructive way.

This knowledge about your child’s development gives you a foundation for problem solving.  Instead of simply reacting in the moment, you can think about what your child’s behaviour means, and where it is leading them.

Often we misinterpret the reasons why children behave as they do.  When we think that they are defying us or trying to make us mad, we respond with anger and punishment.

When we understand that they are doing what they need to do in order to grow into the next stage, we are more likely to respond with the information and support they need.

Remember — each child is unique and will respond differently at each age and stage. The relationships between each parent and each child are also unique.

Thanks to Plunket for today’s tip!

Do you have a tip you’d like to share? Please let us know below.

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Parenting Tip: Talking and listening

May 6, 2009

Like all of us, children learn about the world through everyday conversations.

When we discipline our children, we need to make sure they understand the message.

Talk to your child as much as you can and listen to what they say to you.  Be realistic about what they can and can’t do. For example, you can’t expect a one year old to eat without making a mess, or a two year old to sit still for a long time.

To talk to your child successfully, attract their attention, direct their attention to the object or topic under question, and give a specific explanation about what you expect—and why.

Take time to think about how you communicate with your children.  How effective is it? What would you like to change? Select something you would like to change and work on it for a week.

You will be rewarded for your efforts!

Thanks to Plunket for today’s tip!

Do you have a tip you’d like to share? Please let us know below.

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