making a better connection
How Kids Want You To Chat With Them, According To Psychologists And Actual Children
The Lede
When it comes to talking with kids, many of us feel the urge to drop the infamous "so how's school going?" and then proceed onto a one-hour rant about our own childhood. Instead, child psychologists — and kids themselves — say we're really just overthinking too much. Here's what you can do to make talking with kids easier.
Key Details
- Approach the conversation with an open mind and with the intention to discover shared interests. Begin by asking open-ended questions related to their hobbies, likes or recent experiences.
- Pay close attention to what the child is saying and show genuine interest in their thoughts and stories. Ask follow-up questions instead of immediately shifting the conversation to your own experiences.
- Be yourself during the conversation and avoid adopting a patronizing tone, kids appreciate authenticity.