When your child is sharing something, how should you listen?

Listening is the key to understanding, and understanding is the key to connection.

Nature has given us 2 ears and one tongue - so listen more and speak less
The art of conversation is the art of listening.

Parenting is a journey of love, learning, and growth. One of the most essential skills to master is the art of LISTENING.

Listening to our children is crucial in building trust, understanding their needs, and fostering a strong parent-child relationship.

When we truly listen to our kids, we open ourselves up to their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

This will help us create a safe and supportive environment for them to thrive.
Let's understand the importance of listening in Parenting

When your child is sharing something, how should you listen?

1. Give full attention: 

Put away distractions like phones or other tasks.

2. Maintain eye contact: 

Look at your child to show you're engaged.

3. Show interest: 

Use verbal cues like "uh-huh" or "that's interesting."

4. Avoid interrupting: 

Let your child finish speaking before responding.

5. Reflect and paraphrase: 

Repeat back what you've understood to show you're listening.

Without any interruptions, without making any judgments -

1. Don't interrupt: 

Let them finish talking before you respond.

2. Don't judge: 

Listen without criticizing or saying "that's good" or "that's bad."

3. Show you care: 

Use kind words and a gentle tone to show you're listening.

How to Respond -

1. Use simple responses: 

Say "oh," "I see," or "that's interesting."

2. Ask open-ended questions: 

Ask questions that start with "what," "where," or "how."

Without jumping to conclusions -

1. Don't assume you know what they mean: 

Let them explain in their own words.

2. Ask clarifying questions: 

Say "Can you tell me more about that?" or "What do you mean?"

3. Listen carefully: 

Pay attention to what they're saying without jumping to conclusions.

Listen 100% -

How to Listen 100%

1. Put away distractions: 

No phones, TVs, or other distractions.

2. Make eye contact: 

Look at your child when they're speaking.

3. Use verbal cues: 

Say "uh-huh" or "I'm listening" to show you're engaged.

4. Don't interrupt: 

Let your child finish speaking before you respond.

Zip while they are sharing -

What it Means

"Zip" is a fun way to remind adults to:

1. Keep quiet: 

Refrain from interrupting or commenting.

2. Let children finish: 

Allow them to share their thoughts without interruption.

Listening is very important for parent-child bonding -

Listening in Parent-Child Bonding

Why Listening Matters

1. Shows love and care: 

When you listen to your child, they feel valued and loved.

2. Builds trust: 

Listening helps create a sense of safety and trust.

3. Fosters connection: 

Listening strengthens the emotional bond between parent and child.

Tips for Parents -

1. Give full attention: 

Focus on your child when they're speaking.

2. Show interest: 

Use verbal cues and body language to show you're engaged.

3. Be patient: 

Allow your child to finish speaking before responding.

4. Use open-ended questions: 

Ask questions that encourage your child to share more.

5. Show empathy: 

Validate your child's feelings and offer support.

L.I.S.T.E.N.

1. L - Look:

 Maintain eye contact with the speaker.

2. I - Inquire:

 Ask questions to clarify and show interest.

3. S - Stay focused:

 Avoid distractions and stay engaged.

4. T - Take notes: 

Capture key points to remember.

5. E - Empathise:

 Show understanding and compassion.

6. N - Non-judgemental:

 Listen without bias or interruption.