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Listen  to  your  children

“I think the one lesson I have learned is that there is no substitute for paying attention.”
                                                          --Diane Sawyer

Most of us probably think we really listen to our kids. But do we?  Between other siblings, dinner, the TV, pets and our own thoughts of things that need to get done; do we stop and actively listen to each child?  

There are some things we need to do to show our kids that we value what they say.

Stop.  You can’t give your full attention if you continue working in the kitchen or watching your favorite show on TV.  By not giving your full attention, you are just saying that what your child has to say is not important right now. 

Give eye contact.  Square up and look your child right in the eyes, showing that you value what they have to say.  

Body language.  Keep your body open by not crossing your arms or letting your gaze wander.  Smile.  Lightly touch their arm or their knee.

Engage your brain.  Turn off the distractions and focus.

Ask questions.  Ask open-ended questions, making your child think.  You’ll learn more about your child than you ever dreamed.

Let’s all learn what Diane Sawyer has learned; there is no substitute for paying attention…actively!

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