Innovative technological achievements, fast-paced life and erratic work life have created a communication gap between parents and children.
There are times when parents are not available when are home and vice versa. It is important to be with children so that they do not feel neglected or lonely. Also talking and listening to their problems is essential in building a good parent-child relationship. Follow these tips to minimize the communication gap between you and your children.
1. Make sure you are available to your children when they need you. All you have to do is listen to them. Know in what areas your children are most interested in and guide them in their interests.
2. Show interest in your child's conversations. Do not cross-question; before you start advising let them finish their conversation.
3. Do not be angry at your child. Be caring and understanding towards them. This will make them feel they are valued. Kindly tell them about your opinions, without putting them down. Most importantly, focus on your children's feelings more than yours.
4. Don't criticize your child too much. Explain properly about what is good and bad for them. Never threaten them. As long it is not dangerous let them do what they like.
5. Understand that your child might be simply testing you by telling you just a small part of the bigger problem. So it is better to be all ears to even their hints and half-hearted comments. Encourage them to talk. This way they will share the rest of the story with you.
