Since we can't not communicate, we want to be sure that our words match our tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language. Listening is the other key element in effective communication. Listening requires a total body experience and includes our eyes and feelings, as well as our ears. The feelings behind the words are just as important as the words themselves. Avoid confusing effective communication with talking .
People can talk for hours and never communicate effectively.
Our children need to not only be able to clearly express themselves, but also to listen and understand. Teaching effective communication requires modeling effective communication. Teach relationship maintenance . Each of us is the product of all the relationships we have ever had. We are indelibly linked to the past and the future through these connections.