How can I make effective communication with my child?

03 June, 2020 (Consolace Counselling Services)

How to communicate effectively with children

8-Year-old Aditya and his family had recently moved to Trivandrum from Mumbai. Although he started school about 6 months ago, he had not made any new friends. His teachers also complained of his falling grades, forgetful and inattentive behavior in class. Initially, when his parents felt that he was not his cheerful self, they assumed that he was taking time to adjust to the new city. Gradually he started becoming easily irritable and showed reluctance to go to school by reporting a headache or a stomach ache.  After several attempts to understand his problem, he was brought to us. On further evaluation we found out that he was being bullied at school for his dark skin. Aditya was counselled for his problems but if he had communicated his problems to his teacher or parents, they could have resolved it much earlier.
 
Communication with children is very important for the healthy development of their mind and body. It is necessary that we take time to ask how their day was at school and if he is enjoying learning at school. It is very important that we become good listeners to them because most of the time, all they need is a good hearing.
 
Children of all ages are curious about the people and environment around them. Some of the questions they raise, may seem uncomfortable to answer, but it is best to give them an age appropriate, relatable and factual answer without passing a judgement.  
 
The following are some tips to keep in mind while talking to children

Be a good role model by expressing yourself

More often children are not aware of expressing their problems because they are not certain how to put their thoughts into words. When they see that parents discuss their problems and solutions as a family, children are encouraged to express theirs too.

Reading books or discussing a book read by the child

After reading a story, parents could ask the child to give responses to situations different from the original story. Thus, motivating them to talk more of the possible cause and effect. Like in the story of the Tortoise and Rabbit, one could ask, what would have happened if the rabbit met with an accident on the way? This will also throw light into some of the child’s underlying insecurities as well.

Accepting different emotions and respecting their individuality

Children often suppress their thoughts and beliefs to avoid conflict with parents. But if they are aware that emotions such as anger and frustrations are temporary and he/she will be accepted even if they have done a mistake, they will talk more.

Seek help so children seek help when they need too

As they say, what goes around, comes around. For example, you can ask, ‘What colour paint do you think looks good on the house?’ Such simple exercises make them feel helpful and valuable which in turn makes them think that it is okay to seek help when in need.
 
Children may undergo a host of problems at various stages of their lives. As parents we should be aware of the prevalence of Depression, Anxiety and various Personality disorders in children too. If you observe something unusual in your child, immediately seek professional help as early intervention is of utmost importance in managing childhood mental disorders. For guidance and assistance, one could reach out to Consolace Counselling Services in Trivandrum.

 


Appointments

Our Latest Articles

  • SEPARATION ANXIETY IN PETS

    Consolace Counselling Services

    Read More

  • SMARTPHONE ADDICTION AMONG STUDENTS

    Consolace Counselling Services

    Read More

  • ഉക്രൈൻയുദ്ധത്തിൽ ആടിയുലഞ്ഞ മലയാള സ്വപ്‌നങ്ങൾ!!!

    Consolace counselling services

    Read More

  • Mental Health for Digital Generation

    Consolace counselling services

    Read More