Are you familiar with the term ‘give your child a voice’?
One of the most important psychological factors in raising a family is giving children “voice.”
Giving children a voice promotes self esteem and self worth. By giving children a voice through choice, opinion, feelings and emotions children can develop and learn that they are important and valued. Feeling valued plays a large role in how a child learns. In order for them to play and explore, actively learn and critically think a child needs to feel confident in their environment and have the knowledge that their voice and way of explorations will be noted.
Active Listening
An important element of communication that encourages the child’s voice is active listening.
Tips on how to engage and demonstrate active listening with children at home:
- Using body language to show you’re listening and maintaining eye contact
- Watching your child’s facial expressions and body language to help understand what your child is trying to say if they are having trouble verbally communicating
- Showing interest in what your child is telling you by saying things like ‘Tell me more about …’
- Trying not to finish your child’s sentences or jumping in while your child is trying to communicate
- Not rushing into problem-solving as your child may just want you to acknowledge what they are saying or how they are feeling.
At Inspired we encourage the child’s voice each day by:
- Actively listening to children’s ideas and suggestions
- Providing a safe space where children are encouraged to ask questions
- Role modelling the values of respect, kindness and gratitude
- Acknowledging that each child is different and has individual perspectives
- Partnering with families to encourage positive development, growth and interests
- Supporting children’s interests, ideas and agency in the classroom
- Facilitating routines that acknowledges flexibility and freedoms
We hope some of these suggestions will help you in your everyday family environment.
