When both parents are away at work and children are left alone at home for a major part of the day, communiction can become a problem. It is important that parents give time to children, talking and listening to them so that do not feel lonely and neglected. Following are some tips to bridge the communication gap.
- Be available to your children. Find out when your child talks to you the most. Listen to the him/her. You can start the conversation on your own and ask what is happening in their lives. Learn about your child's interests and help him or her develop it.
- Whenever you child speaks about concerns, listen attentively. Show an interest without cross-questioning. Let a child finish before giving your advice.
- Do not get angry with your child for every small misdemeanor. Be a little patient and soft. It makes him or her feel that feel you care about them. Express your opinion without putting down theirs and acknowledge that it is fine to disagree. Focus on your child's feeling rather than your own.
- Don't treat children as irritants, even if they try your patience sometimes . Explain to them softly. Do not threaten, criticize or lecture them
- Realize your child might test you by telling you a small part of what is bothering him/her. Listen carefully to what they say, encourage them to talk, so by this way they will share the rest of the story with you.
