They Never Tell me Anything! 5 Tips for enjoyable conversations.

​So often I hear parents saying "My kids never tell me anything. They give me one word answers to my questions, roll their eyes and make it quite clear that they don't want to talk to me."

Sometimes your child may be tired, hungry or out of sorts and doesn't really feel like talking and sharing.

On the other hand, there may be times when the way you're communicating with them, may be causing the shut-down!

Try these 5 tips for more enjoyable conversation times:

1. Don't cross-examine! Don't ask a long list of questions the minute you see your child. Rather tell them how happy you are to see them home. and ask them how  their day was.
2. Don't ask questions you already know the answer to: Why did you spill the milk? You're not expecting to hear. "Well my eye-hand coordination isn't fully developed yet." Rather suggest they get a cloth to wipe up the spill.
3. Spend time each day listening to them.Your child will share much more openly when he feels emotionally connected and not judged. Ask questions that you really want to know the answers to. "Who did you play with at recess today?" "How can I help you with your project?
4. Model sharing! Share events and experiences from your day. Tell them about something that you were concerned about and what you did about it.
5. Express gratitude. Say thank you when they listen to you. Tell them that you feel so much better having been able to talk to them about what's bothering you.