In today’s connected digital world, it can seem impossible to have meaningful communication with your children. This is especially true if they struggle with ADHD or other mental or emotional challenges, even if they take medication, such as over the counter ADHD medication. These are some strategies to help you get started.
Establishing a Positive Communication Foundation
To establish your foundation for positive communication, find opportunities to speak with your children. Look for times when you can share positive affirmations with them. Also, implement rules about screen time, giving them more time with the family and less time online.
Pursuing Active Listening Strategies
Your children want to spend time with you, talking, playing games and just having fun. However, they will stop speaking if you stop listening. Therefore, avoid speaking over them or interrupting them. Set aside time and remove distractions so you can have meaningful conversations. Repeat what they say back to them. They will know you are listening if you ask questions, and stay open to discussing anything, even difficult topics.
Speaking Positively to and About Your Children
Your children need to hear your approval of them. Therefore, focus on speaking positively to them. Tell them you are proud, you enjoy spending time with them and that they are amazing. Thank them and encourage them, especially when they feel unsure about something, such as their need to take kids vitamins for ADHD or their struggles with schoolwork.
If you have to speak to your children about something they did wrong, stay positive, and never leave the conversation on a negative note. Assure them of your love no matter their actions. At every opportunity, say things that build your children’s self-esteem. Make sure that it is their behavior you disapprove of, not them as people.
Paying Attention to Body Language
What you say is not nearly as important as how you say it, especially with children. Kids are very aware of your actions, demeanor and attention. Never roll your eyes or act in a way that suggests you don’t have time for them, such as tapping your foot or checking your watch. Therefore, when you talk with your child, get down on their level. Look into their eyes. Smile and remain open, and cuddle or touch them meaningfully.
Use a gentle tone of voice, and do not speak when you turn your back toward your child. Put aside anything that could distract you.
Creating a Safe and Trusting Environment
Your children need to know that you trust them and they can trust you. Therefore, don’t criticize them when they tell you things. Avoid punishments when they are honest with you. Do not blame them for things or overreact to their actions or the things they say. Also, avoid correcting them, and if they say something wrong, be gentle as you show them what is right.
Start talking to them early, even when they are babies. It is never too soon to open channels of communication with your kids.
Open communication is the key to a good relationship with your children. This is especially true if they struggle with a mental or emotional challenge and you have to make medical decisions, such as Thesis Nootropics vs Adderall.
