Jakarta, ThedailyID — Getting children to listen can challenge even the most patient parents. Experts say effective communication starts with listening to children as much as asking them to listen.
Here are five expert-backed strategies parents can try:
1. Keep instructions simple
Avoid giving several instructions at once. Young children can only process a limited amount of information, so break tasks into smaller steps.
2. Get straight to the point
Use short, clear requests instead of long explanations. Children have short attention spans and often lose focus during lengthy conversations.
3. Turn listening into a game
Encourage children to identify sounds around them, such as birds, insects, or the wind. The activity helps strengthen listening skills in a fun and engaging way.
4. Praise positive behavior
Psychiatrist Zishan Khan said specific praise works better than general compliments.
“Specific and detailed praise has a stronger impact and is more likely to encourage positive behavioral change,” Khan told Today’s Parent.
Simple phrases like “Great job” or “Well done” can encourage children to repeat positive behavior.
5. Offer limited choices
Clinical psychologist Maya Weir recommends giving children two options instead of one direct command. She said the approach helps children feel more in control and makes them more willing to cooperate.
“On an emotional and psychological level, this sense of control helps children grow, making them more receptive and cooperative with adults,” Weir said.
Experts emphasize that communication should remain a two-way process. Parents should listen to their children’s needs while encouraging cooperation through respect and positive reinforcement.
