How to talk to KIDS

How to talk to KIDS

• Active Listening:

Paying close attention to what your child is saying, both verbally and non-verbally. Show that you're engaged by nodding, making eye contact, and asking clarifying questions.

• Open-Ended Questions:

  Avoid questions that can be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." Instead, ask questions that encourage your child to elaborate and share their thoughts and feelings. If they enjoy a certain class or sport, ask them questions like they are teaching you, so you are both on the same level.

   
• Empathy and Validation:

  Try to understand your child's perspective and acknowledge their emotions, even if you don't agree with them.  Many of us get caught up in our own routine that we truly don't validate their feeling.

   
• Clear and Simple Language:

  Use language that your child can understand. Avoid jargon or overly complex words. 

   
• Positive Reinforcement:

  Acknowledge their efforts and accomplishments, even small ones. This can help boost their confidence and encourage them to communicate more openly. If your child had a rough day, really listen and support them into helping solve their issue(s). Some issues are their issue and some issues are yours, and some may be beneficial for you to get involved in. If uncertain how to ascertain, ask a family member or friend what they think.

   
• Encourage Questions:

  Let your child know that it's okay to ask questions and express their curiosity. Be open to their questions and help them explore their ideas. Don;t over complicate it, let them continue asking for more information.

   
• Share Your Own Experiences:

  Talking about your own experiences and emotions can help your child feel more comfortable sharing their own.  I understand this is difficult for us survivors, we don't need to go into too much detail, but explain your feeling in ways they are understandable to your child.

   
• Make it Fun:

  Engage in activities that you both enjoy, such as playing games, reading books, or going on outings. This can make it easier for your child to open up and share their thoughts and feelings. If you are on an outing make it place where you and the child won't get interrupted, a place to put them at ease.

   
• Seek Help When Needed:

  If you're struggling to communicate effectively with your child, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor. If your child has been abused, it is of utmost importance to involve a counselor to give you insights on what you can do to help them.

   

  Overall, realize each child learns and communicates differently, so approach them at a level they understand and can relate to.

  If your child has been abused let them know it is not their fault and did nothing wrong, As well as let them know, "They are not ALONE!"

   

   

  Prayers,

   

  Mandie