What Are Some Ways to Communicate With My Child?

Learning how to talk to your child may sound silly, but often times parents are so used to conversing with other adults they may not realize they need to change their communication style. Obviously, a two-year old cannot keep up with an adult conversation let alone follow a list of instructions delivered to them in a verbal manner.

At least 90 percent of all communications are done non-verbally. How is this possible? Humans show a wide array of emotions through their facial expressions. When you are speaking with your child, you may already be able to read their faces to see what they are thinking or feeling. In most cases, the child can read your face as well. This means no matter the situation, you need to portray a calm face when you are speaking to your child. Displaying anger or frustration may hinder the child's ability to hear the words you are attempting to say.

Rate of speech, voice tone, and emphasis on key words is another method you can use to your advantage when speaking to your child. Maintaining a calm voice, even when the child has behaved badly is very helpful. Speaking slowly will ensure the child is hearing every word that you say. This also lets the child know you are not in a rush and have the time to talk with them.

Using hand gestures, body positioning and body distance are also useful tools when it comes to talking to your child. Hand gestures work great when a child may not understand the words you are speaking to them. Body positioning and distance can be used to express your seriousness about a situation or convey your support.

Do you want to learn exactly how to eliminate your child's out-of-control and defiant behavior without using Punishments, Time-Outs, Behavioral Plans, or Rewards?