How Parents can Encourage Positive Communication with their Children 
by Judy Gettel

We live in a very busy world. Our days are full of hectic schedules and obligations which may interfere with our time to actually sit down and visit with our children.

Here are some suggestions to encourage positive communications with your children.

• Focus only on one issue at a time. Children will understand much better its importance if you do so.
• Keep your message short. Make your point as quickly and clearly as possible. You’ll know when it’s time to end the conversation when they begin to stare off into space, give silly comments, etc.
• Discuss just the present issue. Don’t bring up past problems. Remembering past issues may get in the way of what you’re trying to communicate right now.
• Be sure your body language is communicating the message correctly. Pay attention to your facial expressions and tone of voice.
• Be interested in their ideas and opinions. They will become comfortable in expressing their thoughts to you, if you are willing not to be judgmental.
• Ask them questions that will have them describe, explain, or share ideas rather than those which require a simple yes or no answer.

This article authored by Judi Gettel of Mrs. ABC's Spelling and Phonics Curriculum located at http://www.mrsabc.com.  There you'll find an interactive web site teaching children spelling and phonics, free math worksheets, learning tips, and much more!  Subscribe to their free educational newsletter by sending an e-mail to info@mrsabc.com. 

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