Do you ever feel like you're always repeating yourself and your children just don't listen? Listening is a life skill that is taught, not inherent. To be listened to... really heard... makes us all feel validated. To be ignored on the other hand, makes us feel invalidated and unimportant. 

How do we practice good listening skills to pass on to our children? 

1. make eye contact >>>>> creates connections
2. remove distractions >>>>> gives them priority
3. pay attention (focus!) >>>>> helps engage you in the conversation
4. listen to the words and try to picture what they're saying >>>>> creates empathy
5. show you're listening by using body language and gestures >>>>> shows you're engaged
6. ask questions >>>>> shows them you are invested in the conversation
7. be genuine in your response >>>>> kids are more perceptive than you think
8. don't interrupt with your opinions >>>>> this inhibits their chance to understand their own ideas, opinions, and feelings 
9. meet their level of emotion >>>>> deepens the connection & makes them feel validated
10. enjoy the conversation >>>>> no need to say more :)  :)

So listen up!

Good listening skills help you raise emotionally healthy children that will listen to you more.

Why not try this in all your relationships to improve communication and deepen connections?

It's a win-win!!