Tips on Talking and Listening

When you take time to listen, you are telling your child that you really care about her and her world. Set aside time when you can listen without too many distractions. (In most busy families, there are nearly always some distractions.)
Active listening is listening to understand - trying to figure out the feelings behind the words.	Children, especially teens, will share their thoughts and feelings with you when "they are ready"... their timing is not always convenient, but asking questions when they are not ready usually turns them off.
Match your non-verbal communication with your words. Kids are very observant.	Tone of voice. Your body language. Eye contact. Gestures.
In times of stress, you may lose patience and say or do things you regret later - children who feel loved are very forgiving. Say you're sorry and explain how you were feeling at the time. It's the overall atmosphere you create that allows children to absorb that they are valued, respected, and loved. f you're losing your patience too often and feel as if you can't cope, ask for help.
P.A.R.E.N.T.I.N.G.

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