Listening

 DO YOU WANT TO KNOW THE NUMBER ONE WAY TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR TEEN?  Listen!

Yep, listening is the number one way to communicate with your teen.

Are you a good listener? Let’s find out!

·         Do you interrupt when people they are talking?

·          Do you finish their sentences?

·          Do you jump to conclusions before they’re done talking?

·          Are you thinking of what you’re going to say before they’re finished talking?

·         Do you multi-task when other people are talking to you?

If you’ve answered yes to two or more of those questions, it’s time to work on your listening skills.

What is the purpose of listening?  We listen to understand the other person’s point of view. Listening is not about solving their problem or giving advice; it’s about understanding. What are they really saying? What are they really telling you? Most people, especially teens, talk with the hope of being understood. The next time your teen comes to talk you… just listen.                                                                                           

Two ears and one mouth?  Now that’s something to think about!

Activity:

• Make an index card or sticky notes that say “listen to understand.”
• Place them all over the house.
•  Watch the difference it makes in any relationship.