Communicating with young children can be frustrating. If your grandchild isn’t listening, you can try the following tactics: Go to your grandchild, get their attention and make eye contact when making a request Give a simple explanation of why you want them to do something Ask questions and listen to the answers Offer multiple choices to engage your grandchild in the decision making process Establish routines that reduce the need for giving instructions about play, mealtimes and bedtimes It’s important to remain calm when talking to young children. Getting upset or yelling only increases frustration and stress for the both of you. Listening to your toddler and using direct communication will be far more effective than simply telling them what to do.