healthy family
By JoaniZik
@JoaniZik (90)
Philippines
July 18, 2010 10:04am CST
What makes a healthy family? This is one of the important questions that needs to be answered by people today. however, there are a lot of details within this general question. one of those is "communication." how well do family members communicate with each other. specifically, how well do you communicate with your children as a parent? I found a very simple, straight to the point article that I believe would help parents communicate effectively with their children. I hope you will find this helpful also.
How to effectively communicate with your child:
1. Show interest
* physically get down to their level
* eye contact
* repeat what you heard the child say to you
2. Use simple language
3. Be gentle
4. Let the conversation go where it will
5. Don't feel you have to be a "super parent" by fixing everything
6. Don't be afraid to talk about important topics
7. Know when to stop
8. Use humor
1 person likes this
4 responses
@phacat (20)
• United States
21 Jul 10
Communication is an important part of building a healthy family. Couples need to learn each others "language". What we think we have communicated is, in fact, somtimes quite different from what was actually precieved. Communication is more than just verbal. Non- verbal covers a wide variety of things. This includes what we do or how we follow up. I have heard too many people live by the standard, "Do as I say and not as I do." Attitude is also a huge part of communication. "It's not what you said, it's the way you said it."
@phacat (20)
• United States
20 Jul 10
There are two key factors that make a happy family. First and foremost is respect for each. Second is the good old golden rule. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Alot of times parents demand respect from children while at the same time not respsecting the children. They do and say things in front of children that the children repeat. The children are then disciplined without understanding why. If we want our homes to be happy we should set positive examples so our children's feed back will be positive. Spouses should treat each other as they wish to be treated. If you want to be listened to be a good listener. If you want compassion be compassionate. If want a healthy family be healthy in all your relationships. Treat others as you wish to be treated.
@phacat (20)
• United States
21 Jul 10
Thanks for your comment. Relationship is important. However, I really wanted to stress respect. I was raised very strict by a father who was raised in a boarding school with nuns in the 1930's. My dad then went into the U.S. Navy. You can imagine the respect he demanded. That kind of respect is very rarely seen today. I also want to stress not only respect for parents but also repect for children. Children are little people who deserve to be treated with compassion and respect. Yes, they need discipline. However, it should be done in a loving way. This will help them become well round individuals who will be an asset to family, country and their Sovereign.
@Anora_Eldorath (6028)
• United States
19 Jul 10
Joani-
I answered another item first, I didn't realize it had all come from the same article. Could you provide a link to that article so I might be on the same page?
Namaste-
Anora
