I wish my kids would listen to me more.

By Carol Dores

Many parents have shared that they don’t feel listed to. Their children ignore them, or their requests. What often ends up happening is we parents yell to be heard?

How is this working for you?

Probably not very well.

What can we do to be listened to more?

Start by taking a look at yourself, and model good listening. Do you really listen when your children or others are talking to you? What does good listening look like and sound like? Looking in to the speaker’s eyes is a good place to start. Put away anything you are doing – looking at your phone, writing a shopping list, or thinking about what’s on the calendar tomorrow – clear your mind. Really focus on what the other person is saying. Repeat back to them what you heard, and ask questions about what they have said.

You can also take time for teaching your children how to listen. Practice together. Show them the skills of a good listener. Practice some more.

If we truly listen to our children when they are young, they will be more likely to talk to us as they get older. We want to be there for our children, to help them problem solve. We can only do that if they are willing to talk to us. By being good listeners, we are building the connection and relationship that can last a lifetime with our children.

And remember, as the Dalai Lama said, “When you talk, you are only repeating what you already know. But if you listen, you may learn something new.”

Want to see learn more about Positive Discipline? Visit www.positivedisciplinect.org.

Want to be added to our email list to receive tips & tools, class updates, and more? Click here http://eepurl.com/8eOZj

#positivediscipline #listening #relationship #connection