All of us like to be heard, listened to and shown respect for our thoughts. This is true, whether we are 3 years old or 83 years old. While we know how to listen with respect, (eyes on the person, nodding at appropriate times, engaged in the conversation), as parents we need to be sure we follow those rules when we are being spoken to by our children no matter what their age. It was very funny in the classes this past week, that all the kids knew the answers about how to listen and they were very engaged when we talked about a person who was looking at others or fidgeting when they were trying to talk.
The reason I found that amusing was that I find myself doing that from time to time. Listening is such an important skill and one that I am continuing to work on. I told some parents this week that sometimes I find myself not devoting my whole self to the person I am talking to especially when we are in between classes and there is so much activity. Just to let you know that I am aware of this and I am working on keeping my focus on the conversation and the person I am talking to. Don’t you just love the lessons the ‘kids’ are learning!!!!