listening

It is said that children are the most trusting people in the world. In the general sense, this is probably true. On a more personal level though, it takes more than being related or being known to a child to gain his or her continuing trust.

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In the traditional way of bringing up children, parents are expected to earn their trust by the responsibilities performed in the name of parenthood. It is impossible for trust not to develop as children feel the care and love that can only come from parents. In the course of bringing up a child however, there may be hindrances and obstacles that can come up that can create doubts and mistrust. [Read more…] about How to Gain a Child’s Trust

listening

Are you a good listener? I actually find it amusing that I got the idea for this post from one of those online quizzes in a social networking site. I like taking those quizzes when I am passing away time. They may not be as accurate as they can be but they are fun and sometimes, provides valuable insight – like this one. As I was reading my results (I am supposedly a good listener although I don’t always come across as one), I could not help by relate the topic to being a parent.

As Munashe shares in his blog, the art of listening is perhaps one of the most important – if not THE most important – things that a parent should develop. What does the art of listening entail?

I believe that it is more than sitting there and hearing the things that your child has to say. It is not a passive activity but an interactive one. You actively listen by understanding what your child is saying and contributing something to the conversation. More so, listening entails understanding that maybe, at times, your child just wants to be heard and does not really need to be told what to do.

I think that is one problem that arises when children share things with their parents – we sometimes automatically think that we need to provide a solution to whatever they are presenting. Have you ever thought that maybe your child just wants to rant and let off steam and be heard? I sure know that I feel that way a lot of times.

So do you take the time out to really listen to your child? How do you listen?