Experience has shown that children who feel right about themselves, act right. Children who feel hurt or angry, act hurt or angry to those around them. Therefore, children are more likely to listen to parents when they feel that their parents are listening to them. Two words of caution. The first is don't be a parrot.
Many parents try and reflect a child's feelings by repeating their exact words.
Secondly, don't give up. It is normal to feel awkward at first. But with practice, parents become fairly accomplished at using this tool. After witnessing the dramatic changes in their children's self-esteem and behavior parents will question why they didn't use this powerful talk tool sooner. Click here to support international family planning.