Source: rubicon.dk
There are many kinds of relationships existing that people develop over a span of time.But, the most important is the relationship between the parent and child. It is qualitatively different and the most crucial.
There are some characteristics of a healthy parent-child relationship. These areflexibility, connection, appropriate boundaries, open communication,and discipline. In this article, we will be focusing on communication.
What is Communication?
Source: moneywise.co.uk
Communication is the act of transferring information from one person to another. It can be verbal or non-verbal, positive or negative, effective or ineffective. It is essential for the parents to communicate effectively with their children.
Open communication between a parent and child can benefit not only the child but the other family members as well. This will lead to a happier and healthier relationship between both parties, prevent problems that may arise in the future or minimize troubles.
On the other hand, ineffective or harmful communications between children and parents can lead children to believe that they are unimportant or misunderstood. Self-esteem tends to get low,andthey might have a hard time making decisions for themselves because nobody taught them how to.
Most of the children who grew up without proper communication see their parents as untrustworthy. They just prefer to keep the problems to themselves or share to their so-called friends because they are afraid that their parents might not support or disapprove them.
Hence, it is vital for the parents to set up an open and effective communication with their children while they are still young.
Parents’ Perspective
Source: doctoranddad.com
Raising a child is never an easy thing,but through open communication, you can raise your child effectively and prevent troubles that may arise within the family that may start from your child. A parent should communicate at their children’s level. A parent should only use words or language that are appropriate only to their child’s age. Never shout at themand say vulgar words.
A parent should be a good listener too. Listening is a skill that must be learned and practiced. Parents must listen to what their children say or feel, whether how good or bad they are. You can show that you listen to your children by maintaining eye contact, eliminating distractions,listening with a closed mouth, asking questions and letting your children know that you are listening.
Regular family meetings or gatherings are also essential. Family meetings can be done once a week or whenever there must be discussed. It is a valuable tool to fix family issues and talk about problems. Always let your child be awareof these kinds of happenings,and he/she will learn how to open up with his/her family as the time pass by.
A parent should try to make explanations clear. It is normal for the children to ask questions because they have little knowledge of the world. Use these questionsas anopportunity to teach and educate them about everything under the sun even though you are not comfortable discussing some things with them.
A parent should always try to keep the conversation short and simple. The younger the children, the more difficult it is for them to understand. Parents should know if their children cannot understand anymore what they are saying, so it’s best to state the ideas little by little. They should also know when to back off sometimes.
Parents should bear in mind that effective communication will never turn out exactly as what you always wanted. Remember that patience with effort is the key. This will be hard at first,but with a lot of hardwork and practice, you will be achieving the healthy, happy and confident parent-child relationship.