Communication Skills for Parents

An important skill for parents to master is "active listening." When parents listen actively, they send children the message that they are important enough to have the parent's undivided attention. Many problems can be solved and even prevented when parents take the time to use active listening. Importantly, when a parent is an active listener, she is able to guide children to solve problems for themselves.

Here are four steps to master this skill:

Stop what you are doing.

Look at your child.

Give your full attention.

Listen to what is said.

Comment on what you think you heard. Use Door Openers, not Door Slammers.

Source: Parent Effectiveness Training