The sixth and final device I suggested was to take the time to talk through the situation and find a solution that is agreeable to both of you. As your children age, this concept will become more and more important. Having a history of open communication with your child will help to lay the groundwork for a positive experience throughout adolescence. This can be one of the most difficult things to do with your children. However, creating an environment where your kids feel that they have the ability to communicate their needs/wants can have the greatest potential to break communication barriers.

There will inevitably be times when you and your child will not be able to come to an agreeable solution. Nonetheless, taking the time to talk through an issue with your son or daughter will help to express your love for them. In addition, it will also communicate that you respect them as a person and genuinely want to hear what they have to say. A child’s sense of confidence and security begins with the relationship with his or her parents. While that can be an overwhelming concept for us to digest, that is just a piece of the magnificent responsibility we have been given.

Check out last week’s post on Anger & Assertiveness.

Nick Hersey, LAMFT, LAPC

nhersey@ GROWcounseling.com