As a parent, it is important to focus on your child’s communication skills as they grow up. How they respond to criticisms or compliments, how they interact with other kids and/or adults, and how they behave socially are some ways to know if your child is displaying good communication skills.

Most children follow by example, from peers, adults, or what they see online. With all the technological advancements nowadays, it is normal that your child will adopt communication skills from this platform. Social skills need to be developed with some parental help.

3 Major Communication Skills to Teach your Child

When your child is growing up, making friends is important. And what better way to develop friendship than being a good communicator.

Questioning

It is no surprise that people like to talk about themselves. Start at home by asking questions. Touch base with your child every now and then. Gather information about what they like to do during their free time, who their friends in school are, or what they want to be when they grow up. You may also consult with them if there will be changes at home.

Practicing questioning at home will make your child become more engaged. Not only does talking about themselves help them express themselves freely; it also makes them feel better. Once this habit is formed at home, it will be easier for your child to use this outside. They will be able to openly ask questions of their peers.

Sharing

Sharing knowledge is another way to enhance the communication skills of your child.

When your child learns to share and observe how others share their ideas, their communication skills will become better. Let them share with you what they did in school today, how was baseball practice, or what they think of the new sofa bed.

Observe how they respond and their tone of words. Listen to their word choices. Inform them how they communicate will attract friends or drive them away. How your child shares information will pave the way to make friends.

Reaching Out

Reaching out does not only refer to helping. It also means to extend an invitation to someone, and is not limited to birthday parties. When your child is able to invite and talk to someone without being pressured to, their communication skills are enhanced.

Your child will get invited to many events, thus it is also important to return the favor. Make sure that your child is also aware of how to respond when they get declined.

Importance of Good Communication Skills

There are many skills that a child needs in order for them to become more socially capable. A child’s capacity to communicate effectively in any given situation is an important skill. And as we all know, the better we are at communicating and interacting, our quality of life gets better too.

We begin to communicate the moment we were born – by letting out that cry. As a child grows up, their first contact is through their parents. Being a parent, your role in nourishing your child’s communication skills is essential. Expressing themselves freely and with confidence will help them in all aspects of life. The more you interact with your child, the more you can help them enhance their skills.

Tips for Parents to Help Improve their Child’s Communication Skills

Parents play a crucial role in every child’s development. Here are a couple of communication tips for parents:

Be there for your child

Have a casual conversation with your child. This can be done during dinner or on your way home from picking them up. Let them know you care about what is happening with them. Find time to be with them – have a one-on-one activity.

Let your child know you are listening

When your child shares something – be it a bad thing that happened in school or a concern they have – give them your full attention. Listen to what they have to say without asking too many questions. Acknowledge and respect their opinions. Let your child speak their mind. Make sure to let them know that you understand everything they said before giving out your opinion.

Parenting is tough. Talking and listening to your child creates a healthy connection between you and them. Remember to always ask your child what they need from you. Focus on your child’s needs. Encourage them to speak. Motivate and respond to what they have to say without appearing defensive or angry.

Communication skills can be developed with practice and everything always starts at home. By being there for your child and helping them develop these skills at an early stage, you are ensuring them a better future ahead.

Sending your child to the right preschool will also help develop the necessary skills to achieve success in the future. If you’re looking for the best school for them, please don’t hesitate to contact Young Scholars Academy.