The Bernard L. Pacella, MD Parent Child Center

Resources: Information for Parents

Information for parents about communication with their children

From AmPsychological Monitor Volume 31, No. 5, May 2000:

American Psychological Association launches parent-child communication campaign: The campaign will provide a communication tip sheet for parents and a list of reading resources.

Tips for parents include:

When your children are talking, stop whatever else you're doing to listen to them. Express interest in what they are saying without being intrusive. Listen to your child's viewpoint, even if it's difficult to hear. Let your child finish speaking before you respond. Focus on your child's feelings rather than your own during the conversation.
Control strong emotional responses when you disagree with your child's point of view. The guide tells parents, "Controlling this response is one of the biggest gifts you can give your child."

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