Communicating effectively with children is dependent upon learning to be a good listener. Although parents hear children talking every day and carry on conversations with them, good communication is not always taking place.

When your child talks, make an effort to really listen. Stop whatever you are doing, establish eye contact and pay attention to what your child is saying. Quite often what is said between the lines is just as important as the words being spoken. Demostrate as interest in what your child is saying by asking appropriate questions and responding in a positive manner. If a child's comments are continually passed off as being of little consequence, the child will begin to feel that his/her opinions are not important.

Teaching children to be good listeners can help prevent many problems that might occur at home or at school.

There are many excellent listening techniques that can be followed. These techniques will make a difference when a problem or misunderstanding is discussed. Practice these techniques at home and teach children how to become good listeners.

• Encourage the other person to speak freely.
• Try to consider both point of view being discussed.
• Do not make up your mind before the conversation begins.
• Stick to the facts.
• Look for the use of the body langauge that can be a key to a person's feelings.
• Give the other person the benifits of the doubt.
• Make an effort to listen and pay attention. People can tell when others are listening.
• Ask questions which lead to an understandinf of the situation.

Being a good listener is a learned task. The technique of good listening takes hard work and effort. There are many benifits of effective listening which can be utilized by both parents and children.

Remember, open communication with your child is critial. Parents should be the most important listeners a child has. Show that you care by making your child feel important enough to be heard.