Recap of Session 2: How to Listen So Kids Will Talk and Talk So Kids Will Listen

Key Scripture: Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those that hear them.  Ephesians 4:29

1. Talk to your kids -- a lot!  About anything!  Especially about the things they are interested in.

2. Learn the difference between responding and reacting.
Positive responses:

• I'm open to that.
• That's an interesting idea.
• That has possibilities.
• You're doing some good thinking.
• Sounds like you've given this a lot of thought
• Let's look at some more options.
• I'm sure you've got some good reasons for thinking that way.
• Many, many more in the chapter for this session

Negative responses (shuts a child down -- inhibits parent/child communication):

• Be quiet and listen!
• No! No! No!
• It won't work!
• I don't want to hear any more about this!
• Do you ever learn?
• I told you so!
• Many, many more in the chapter for this session

3. Realize that your tone of voice is a reflection of your attitude.

4. Let your communication be non-threatening (A threatening tone shone shows your insecurity, frustration and uncertainty.  Non-threatening tone shows you are comfortable with your position of authority).

5. Speak more in statements rather than questions.  (Questions often suggest a hierarchy.  Instead of "How did you do on your test?"  you could say  "I bet that test was tough today."

6. Have a "Yes" face.

7. Collaborate and exchange ideas and observations.

8. Always project an "I am open to you" attitude.

Stay tuned into them so they don't tune you out!