Every parent has been there. You’ve asked your child to do something for the millionth time that day yet they still show no signs of listening. Whether it’s tidying their room, doing their homework, or simply putting on their shoes; kids have an uncanny knack for failing to hear the simplest instructions.
It’s frustrating. And it explains why so many parents resort to shouting. It can often seem like the only solution when you’ve said the same thing time and time again without effect. So how can you get kids to listen without yelling?
Set a good example
Children learn from watching how adults behave so it’s important to set a good example. Always give them your full attention when they are talking so they learn the importance of listening when people are talking.
Give clear instructions
For younger children, it’s important to keep things simple. Quite often adults fall into the trap of rattling off an endless list of instructions “Find your shoes, then get your jacket, where’s your school bag? Have you brushed your teeth?” Hearing a constant monologue can cause kids to switch off which is why they often appear not to be listening. The solution is to simply give one clear instruction at a time.
Remove distractions
If you’re asking your kids to do something while they are busy playing a computer game or watching TV, the challenge is doubly difficult. Try removing technology at key times during the day so that you don’t have to compete. For example, you could have a rule that there is no television until after homework is completed or no computer games in the morning when you’re trying to get ready to leave the house.