Regular family meetings can improve family communication, according to the North Dakota State University Agriculture and University Extension. Calling a family gathering, with the participation of all members being equally important, can encourage problem solving and cooperation. Scheduled meetings with firm time limits can encourage participation, too, and you can always carry issues over for subsequent meetings. Parents and caregivers may also find help by learning communication skills.
Be Positive
Reframe feedback for children to be more positive, suggests Jody Johnston Pawel, a licensed social worker and certified family life educator. Substitute ordering and nagging with stating the problem you observe, such as dirty dishes left on the table, to give children the opportunity to act appropriately on their own. Leaving notes for children using humor or fantasy instead of blame may engage their attention and prompt behavior changes without conflict, Pawel notes.
Ask and Observe
Listen to words and observe nonverbal messages, to understand the needs and perspectives of your children, advises Suzanna Smith, associate professor of human development at the University of Florida. In family discussions, rephrase a child's statements and ask further questions to encourage her to share her views. During a disagreement, state what you need but continue to listen, observe, and ask, to ensure you meet the needs of your children.
Actively Listen
Be a role model for active listening, whereby your focus is on the speaker, recommends the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension. Don't talk before the speaker finishes. Avoid making assumptions, offering unwanted advice, or mentioning tangential issues. If a current task, such as driving a car, is interfering with your attention, tell the speaker when you will be better able to listen. By listening actively, you provide an example your children can emulate.
