Talking to Children to Improve School Success

Talking to children can be challenging for adults. Children perceive the world completely differently than parents and believe they are the center of the universe. This can create a problem when parents want to make a point and children don't see how it applies to them. When engaging children in conversation, there are steps you can take to help get your point across. When parents effectively communicate with their child, the child has a greater understanding of the expectations and can learn from the communication. This applies to the classroom as well as home environments. Some things to try to help improve communication with your child

Talking to Children to Improve School Success: Body Language

Step 1

Get down on the child's level. Sit next to them, squat in front of them or sit on the floor.

Step 2

Make eye contact with the child.

Step 3

Be calm even if you aren't. Addressing a child by yelling at them is only going to teach them to fear you, not to hear you.

Talking to Children to Improve School Success: Talking to a Child

Step 1

Use the child's name to gain their attention. Make sure they are looking at you before you begin talking.

Step 2

Use short sentences with one to three words depending on age. One word works with children who are one year old, two to three words work with children two and three years old. Older children may be able to comprehend a longer sentence, but the more words you use, the more it seems as though you are talking at them.

Step 3

Use short, simple words in your sentences with children and model what you are trying to convey if possible.

Step 4

Have the child show or repeat what you are saying.

Step 5

For older children, writing down directions, or ideas as well as telling them may help them grasp what you are talking about easier.

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