Tips To Get Toddlers To Listen

Most toddlers can hear just fine, but you wouldn't know it from the way they act!

It's tough to get their attention, but it's important that they understand when it's time to listen to mommy or daddy.

Here are a few tips to get your toddler to pay attention and listen up!

Find a catch phrase - Come up with a family 'catch phrase' that means 'listen to me now'. Keep it positive! Try 'time to listen!', 'eyes on mommy (or daddy)', or 'time to use your ears!' Or come up with a sound that signals that it's time to pay attention: 'bing!', 'knock-knock', 'yoo-hoo!' You will find your child using the phrase on you, so be ready to set a good example and listen to them when they do.

Eye contact - When you need your child to listen, make eye contact. Get on their level, hold their chin and use your catch phrase. Soon they will automatically look at you when you use your catch phrase.

Stay positive - It's hard to get children to listen when all they hear is No! No! No! Make sure to include a lot of Yes's in your day. Your child will be more interested in hearing what you have to say if you say more positive things than negative things.

Get rid of distractions - Turn the TV off, turn the stereo off, and step away from the toys. This works great in your own home, but is harder when you're out and about. Find a quiet spot and get your child to physically step away from distractions.

Try quieter, not louder - If your child is not listening, the first instinct is to raise your voice. Barring distractions, if you talk more quietly, a toddler's natural curiosity may make them wonder what you're saying and come to investigate. This also sets a good example: a quiet parent will have a quieter child.

Take a break - Before you talk to your child to take a few deep breaths, and encourage them to do the same. Even an 18 month old can do this. Raise their arms above their head and take a deep breath in, then lower them and breathe out. It's surprising how quickly they will imitate your breathing. They will focus all their attention on you while doing this. Then you can jump in with your catch phrase and start talking.

Be patient - Be patient with both your child and yourself. All parents know this is the hardest thing to do, but the most important.

Listening is so important, but is also one of the most frustrating things to teach toddlers. Practice with the day-to-day stuff so that in an emergency, your child will have the skills to pay attention when it really counts.

by: Eddie Lamb

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