Communicating with Children - Part 1 POSTURE

As a parent, one of the toughest challenges is to communicate effectively to our children. For that matter, it is one of the major challenges of any family.

As adults, we become accustomed to, well… to talking and thinking like adults. This generational difference interferes with our ability to relate to children. Consider this; adults probably can speak with some knowledge about current events, the weather, or who is running for president. Most children could care less about these topics. It is comparable to the attitude we adults may have when asked to discuss who is more powerful: Pikachu, Bulbasur, or Charmander. All of those being Pokemon characters, in case you didn't know.

While some adults have no problem relating, there are many individuals who, whether by intimidation or a fear of rejection, are unable to connect or even relate to the kids in their community. Some struggle even to connect with their own children.

In this five part series, we will address some ideas on how to truly connect in communication with children. I hope you find these ideas to be valuable tools in relating to and teaching your family.

Step one:
POSTURE

A major part of communication comes from our facial expressions and body language. When one takes a moment to "get on your level" physically, it makes it easier to connect. If you want to test this, think back on the last conversation you had with someone you couldn't see... maybe on the phone or via email. It is much easier to misunderstand what is being said when you can't see the person.

The reason it is important to see the person you are talking to has everything to do with the subtle nuances we pick up from body language, especially the facial expressions.

As a parent, you can use this to your advantage. To connect to kids we have to get on their level. If you have small children, it helps to bend at the waist (or take a knee) so you can look them in the eyes during the conversation. Otherwise, they are going to be talking to your belly button... and that's just weird. ha. For teens or older children, take the time to slow down and look at one another. If you are apologizing, make sure they can see your face so they can see you are sincere... and BE sincere.


More to come... Part 2 is all about "Bob"



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