Don’t Wonder How to Start Family Discussions. Find Out Here.
Guest Blog by Jean Tracy, founder of kidsdiscuss.com
Parents are like gardeners nurturing a young plant, ensuring it grows strong and healthy. Conversations at home are like sunlight and water—vital for your child’s growth. You don’t need to be an expert to guide your child through meaningful discussions. What you need is intention and the growing ability to listen, understand, and appreciate your children.
A Pew Research Center survey found that Americans overwhelmingly view spending time with family as one of the most important things in their life…What better way to grow family values than with meaningful family conversations. You can do it.
Dinner Table Conversations Help Kids:
- Learn how to express themselves.
- Listen to others.
- Think reasonably and wisely about the world around them.
As a parent, you hold the power to shape these conversations, helping your child like a guide through the woods until you find the perfect spot to camp. Without your guidance, your family might not feel secure. With you as their guide, they feel safe to share their thoughts and feelings.
“The most important thing in communication is to hear what isn’t being said,” says Peter Drucker. Sometimes your child’s silence speaks volume
These Parenting Tips Help Child Caregivers Lead:
- Encourage your children to share their thoughts, even if they seem hesitant. Accept and reflect on what your child might need to consider. No scolding or lecturing.
- Ask open-ended questions, such as “What is the best part of your day?” or “How do you feel about that?” These questions invite deeper conversations and show your child that their opinions matter.
How Parents Teach Kids to Connect with Others:
Remember that you don’t have all the answers. Just by being present and listening, you’re teaching your child one of life’s most valuable skills—how to connect with others. Listening with intention and kindness is key.
Take a deep breath, embrace your role as a discussion guide, and watch your children flourish in the warmth of your conversations.
Carol: I always enjoy your columns, and this one especially. Ironically, this week I received a video entitled “How we spend our time.” It recorded what activities we have engaged in over the years; 1931-2024. Without going into great detail, here are two results that really tie in with your column today:
In 1931, 23% of our time was spent with family. In 2024, 4.5%. This puts family time below bars and restaurants, school, friends, neighbors church.
Online came into the picture in 1992. By 2024, we spend 61% of our time online.
Interesting, and perhaps sad.