How to Avoid Interruptions from Your Child

One of the most frustrating habits, your child may have, is interrupting. Teaching them to not interrupt can also become very frustrating. It can be particularly frustrating, if your child is extremely talkative. or is a very active child. This article will help you to teach your child good manners about their interrupting and to wait their turn to talk.

As a parent, the first thing we have to do is set realistic expectations for our child. Young children, school aged kids, in particular, have difficulties holding what's in their mind for more than a couple of minutes. The best tactic to use with younger children is to tell them they can speak to you as soon as possible. However, it is important you follow through with this. As mentioned, they have a limited capacity to contain their thoughts for any length of time.

When you are on the phone, or otherwise occupied, it's important to have a plan already in place with your children. Make sure they understand when you are on the phone; it isn't the time to bother you, unless it's an emergency. Have a "special" box on hand. Put coloring books, crayons, markers, puzzles, flash cards, or any other quiet toys in this box. Tell your child that this box is only to be used when you are on the phone, or busy. When you know you're going to be occupied for a little while, tell them to get their special box and play. It's also a good idea, if you know you're going to be busy, to get snacks and a drink ready for them beforehand. This way, you won't have to be bothered by them for food and drink.

Another way to help prevent interruption while you're busy is to set a time with your child. Let them know that you will be talking to your visitor or on the phone, and give them an estimate of how long it will take. Directly ask them if they need anything before you go to visit with your company or make your phone call. It is important to stick as close to your estimate as possible.

If you find you will be running over your estimated time, excuse yourself from your company or phone and go check on your child. Explain to them you will be longer than what you expected. Take this opportunity to ask them if they need anything before you return to your company or the phone.

One of the best ways to teach children good manners is by reading stories with manner lessons weaved into the story. Go to your local library, or book store, and find some good stories about interrupting and read them with your child. Discuss the stories and the lessons learned within the story with your child. You should also discuss how they should handle a comparable situation in their life, when it happens.

Like most other things, children will learn by your example. If you, your spouse/significant other, or their brothers and sisters are constantly interrupting, it will be a harder lesson to learn. It's always a good idea to practice what you preach. Don't forget to apologize if you inadvertently interrupt anyone else.