Have you ever intentionally had a respectable conversation with a child? It is one of my favorite things. Here are some pointers I have found to be helpful in delightful conversation with children.
- Be yourself. Kids can spot a fake a mile away. Authenticity will open them up.
- Ask open ended questions about their life. Avoid questions that could be answered with a yes or a no.
- Seek out their opinion about something. Let them help you make a choice no matter how simple.
- Involve yourself in what they are doing. Pulling them away from whatever activity they are doing puts them on their guard.
- Touching is a touchy topic. Some kids don’t like to be touched. Take your cues from them. Let them be the initiators. You can reciprocate with a toned down version of their initiative.
- Baby talk is for babies. Do not condescend.
- Use their name. It is the sweetest sound in the world.
- Humor is a funny thing. Put downs don’t work. Sarcasm is ify. Even nicknames are thin ice. Jokes of the riddle type and physical humor are good ways to get a laugh in.
- Listen. You won’t be disappointed.
super baby, gabby girl, wonder kid and smoochy face
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{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
For many years, my job required that I had some tough talks with kiddos… and when I read your list above… I said “I agree” to every point you made!
I agree fully.
Good stuff!! I employ some of these with the 4-year olds every other Sunday at church.
Totally agree…the only thing I could possibly add would be get down physically on their eye level – sit on the floor, squat down, etc. It really levels the playing field and lets the child know you’re paying full attention to them. Besides…how many adults will just sit down on the floor and play with a child??
Livvy Lu – That is a great point. It is so very important to get at the kids’ level. thanks for chiming in.
So true to all including Livvy Lu. I think we experienced just that more than a few times during our time with the dreamers.