Good listening must first be modeled and practiced by the parent if it is to become a part of the child's character. The power of parental example cannot be overstated. If you want your child to be a good listener, you must be a good listener by providing a daily mirror of what your child can become. Good listening skils need to be identified and practiced on a regular basis. What you say also has value in proving you are listening.
People think faster than they speak.
With limited vocabulary and experience in talking, children often take much longer than adults to relay what is on their mind. Avoid cutting children off before they have finished speaking. Ask questions to help children clarify their thoughts. Providing them with a word or supplying a child with a phrase is helpful, but don't finish the child's sentence for him. Encourage conversation in your home.