What are the origins of this fun-filled festive custom?
Your child might not listen or communicate with you because they feel disconnected. Having a strong relationship with your child is important. Try spending 10 more minutes with them each day.
If a child is engrossed in a certain activity, they may not want to listen to you as they are busy having fun. If you are short on time, use activities that are easier to transition out of.
If your child is seemingly not listening, it may be that they actually just don't want to do the task you're requesting. Prompt them to share why this task feels daunting or share ways the task could be completed.
Children of all ages, but especially very young ones, often have a hard time with the concept of time. Be sure to utilize visual reminders or timers. Also, if you say you'll be there in a minute, stick to it.
When a child is caught up in something it can be difficult for them to save space to listen to you as the parent. Ensure when you do speak to them that you have their full attention.
Your child is motivated by their interests, so they may not want to do a task you requested because they are busy doing something they actually like.
Young children often can't remember or have a hard time executing multi-step instructions. Be sure you are clearly and concisely breaking down the task at hand into simpler pieces.
Having to repeatedly ask your child to do something can instill bad habits in him or her. Even worse is if you yell to get your way. This will teach the child to do the same. Try to make clear, concise requests of your child.
Repeating a phrase like "Pick up your shoes, please" can cause a child to ignore you. Try rewording and being purposeful with your requests. Also, consider using a visual chart of their positive behaviors or activities.
Communicating with your child goes both ways. You must listen to them if you want them to listen to you. Children, like adults, want to feel seen and understood.
Using negative language that judges your child can make them feel shamed and, therefore, much less likely to listen. Try a more collaborative approach where, instead of ultimatums, you offer help.
Children often choose to not listen because they need more autonomy. Just like adults, they want to have a say in what they value and do. Once they are more autonomous, then they'll likely listen more.
Your child is simply trying to meet a need when they are doing something you don't want them to. For example, they may be jumping on the bed. Their actual need is for fun and movement, so if you don't want them jumping on the bed specifically, provide another safe space for them to expend some energy.
If your child isn't listening to you, fret not. There are ways in which you can better connect with them and subsequently have them listen more. Check out the following slides for ideas.
Are you having a challenging time getting your child to listen to you? If so, you're not alone. Parents everywhere often struggle with disobedient children who won't or choose not to listen to them. In this gallery, you'll find 13 common reasons your kids might not be listening to you, followed by what to do instead and ideas for encouraging them to listen. If you're unsure what to do to teach your child the best listening skills, read through today.
Curious how you can help teach your children to listen better? Click through now.
If you are setting big, multiple-step goals for them it can get very confusing. Try using very simple and clear instructions that focus on one task at a time.
Be sure you are choosing positive behaviors as your kiddo is always watching. If you don't listen, then what do you think the chances are that they will?
Patience is a virtue, especially with your child. Try showing them it is okay to stumble and there are ways to continue forward. Encourage them to keep listening and trying.
Praising your child when they do something you asked of them is a good way to encourage this behavior to occur again.
Staying calm when things don't go as planned or when your child doesn't listen is key to their development. If you get frustrated and start yelling, they will likely shut down and refuse to listen even more.
Be sure to listen to your child even when you're busy. Listening to them shows them you care and encourages them to listen to you, even when they are busy or engaged.
To help your child avoid decision paralysis and not listening to you, give them two choices. Do they want to do this or that? It gives the illusion of choice and empowers your child to decide for themselves.
Your child may be a more visual learner so visual aids and reminders could help them listen, remember, and do the thing you requested of them.
Consistency helps children know what's expected of them. While they still must listen to receive relevant information, they generally know what's expected of them.
Be sure you think about where your child is developmentally speaking. While not every child matures the same, if a child is much younger, try simpler requests and slightly increase the difficulty as the child matures.
To help ensure your child is listening, address any underlying emotions they may be experiencing. By creating an open and safe space for them to share their emotions, they will learn to trust you and listen to you better.
Sources: (Psychology Today) (PyschCentral)
See also: Teaching kids good manners: politeness in everyday life
There are many reasons why your child isn't listening. Dive deeper into the 13 main reasons in the following slides.
Reasons your kids aren’t listening (and what to do instead)
How to connect better with your children
LIFESTYLE Behavior
Are you having a challenging time getting your child to listen to you? If so, you're not alone. Parents everywhere often struggle with disobedient children who won't or choose not to listen to them. In this gallery, you'll find 13 common reasons your kids might not be listening to you, followed by what to do instead and ideas for encouraging them to listen. If you're unsure what to do to teach your child the best listening skills, read through today.
Curious how you can help teach your children to listen better? Click through now.