Latest / 5–Minute Parenting: Tips to Help You Raise Competent, Godly Kids. / How to Encourage Our Children Using Active Listening
Transcript
- 0:31SPEAKER_00: Welcome to another episode of 5-Minute Parenting.
- 0:36SPEAKER_00: Last week we talked about some different ways that we as parents can encourage our children, and today we're going to do a follow-up on that by talking about how to encourage our children by using active listening.
- 0:51SPEAKER_00: Active listening is a powerful tool for effective communication, and it can be particularly beneficial when used with children.
- 1:00SPEAKER_00: So let's take a look at how we can use it.
- 1:04SPEAKER_00: First, give your child your full attention.
- 1:08SPEAKER_00: When your child is speaking to you, put down whatever you're doing and give them your full attention.
- 1:14SPEAKER_00: Make eye contact and show that you're fully present and interested in what they have to say.
- 1:21SPEAKER_00: Number two, listen to them without interrupting.
- 1:26SPEAKER_00: Allow your child to express themselves without interrupting them.
- 1:30SPEAKER_00: Let them finish their thoughts before responding.
- 1:35SPEAKER_00: 3.
- 1:36SPEAKER_00: Show empathy.
- 1:37SPEAKER_00: Try to understand your child's perspective and validate their feelings.
- 1:42SPEAKER_00: Reflect back what they're saying to you to show that you understand using phrases like, it sounds like you're feeling, or I can see why that would make you feel.
- 1:58SPEAKER_00: 4.
- 1:59SPEAKER_00: Ask open-ended questions.
- 2:01SPEAKER_00: Encourage your child to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings by asking open-ended questions.
- 2:08SPEAKER_00: This shows that you're interested in their perspective and allows for a deeper conversation with them.
- 2:16SPEAKER_00: 5.
- 2:16SPEAKER_00: Avoid judgment.
- 2:18SPEAKER_00: Refrain from passing judgment or criticizing your child's thoughts or feelings.
- 2:23SPEAKER_00: Instead, create a safe place for them to express themselves openly, without fear of negative reactions.
- 2:32SPEAKER_00: 6.
- 2:33SPEAKER_00: Paraphrase or summarize.
- 2:36SPEAKER_00: Repeat back what your child has said in your own words to ensure that you've understood them correctly.
- 2:43SPEAKER_00: This also shows that you're actively engaged in the conversation.
- 2:48SPEAKER_00: 7.
- 2:49SPEAKER_00: Use nonverbal cues.
- 2:52SPEAKER_00: Use nonverbal cues such as nodding and facial expressions to show that you're listening and engaged in the conversation.
- 3:06SPEAKER_00: Encourage your child to express themselves openly and honestly by creating an environment where their thoughts and feelings are valued and respected.
- 3:18SPEAKER_00: 9.
- 3:18SPEAKER_00: Be patient.
- 3:20SPEAKER_00: Sometimes children may take time to articulate their thoughts or express their feelings.
- 3:26SPEAKER_00: Be patient and give them time, the time that they need to communicate effectively.
- 3:33SPEAKER_00: 10.
- 3:35SPEAKER_00: Follow up.
- 3:36SPEAKER_00: After your child has shared their thoughts or feelings, follow up with them later to see how they're doing or if they have any additional thoughts on the matter.
- 3:46SPEAKER_00: This demonstrates that you value their input and are interested in continuing the conversation.
- 3:53SPEAKER_00: By using these active listening techniques with your child, you can foster better communication, strengthen your relationship, and create a supportive environment where they feel understood and valued.