The importance of communication cannot be overemphasized in a parent child relationship. In order to develop a strong bond with your child, you need to involve him or her in healthy conversations and listen to their problems with interest. This simple communication plays a vital role in developing your child’s mind and improving their confidence level.
Good communication involves speaking the right words at the right time as well as listening to what your child has to say. The strategy of developing a healthy relationship may change from person to person and should be adapted to a child’s behavior and temperament.
It is very important to understand children’s psychology before proposing a solution to their problems. Children are, by nature, curious and inquisitive. Do not scold your child for this habit of asking a million questions about every matter. Let your child explore things on his or her own without interrupting them in every activity. If possible, try to anticipate your child’s questions and be prepared to give answers.
Children like it when they are treated as adults. Be honest with your child and do not hide many facts. Recall your childhood experiences and thoughts and accordingly fulfill your child’s demands. This process of open communication should start as early as a few months’ age when your child begins to recognize you.
In addition to verbal communication, a silent communication is also important between parents and their children. This type of communication involves studying your child’s body language and observing their behavior and reaction to certain actions and words. It also involves reading your child’s mind and acting accordingly. Sometimes children do not let their true feelings show just out of respect for their parents. Encourage your child to say whatever they are thinking and assure him or her that you would not take it in the wrong light.
Share your knowledge with your child according to their age and mental level. Some children are ahead of others in studies, and level of maturity and knowledge. Do not curb your child’s habit of learning new things and new concepts. In fact, help your child out by giving him or her books to read or informative movies to watch and discuss openly the lessons learnt in those movies. This is a very effective way of learning, and many children find it interesting and fulfilling.
Instead of imposing your likes and dislikes on your child, ask him or her what they would like to have. This includes buying toys, clothes, foodstuff and other things. Even if you disapprove of their choice, do not make it obvious. Let your child experience what he has chosen and then give the ones you like as a gift.
Playing games with your child is also a healthy activity and helps in effective communication. Let your child win and tell him or her if a move was faulty or a better move could have been made. Always put the joy of your child before your own habits and interests.
Children sometimes get wary of disciplinary lessons constantly been thrown at them by their parents. Try to wait for the right time to tell your child that what he did was wrong and how it can be corrected. Most importantly, tell your child that you love him or her every day and when they are down or upset because of something.
Build your child’s communication skills in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and encourage him or her to share their experiences and stories without making fun of them. This early communication between parents and children pays off hugely in the end when children have to go out, meet other people, build and maintain new relationships, and be successful in all walks of life.