Having Better Communication with Your Kids

If you are a parent, you are at least one of the adults in your family. Your children look up to you in every way. You need to communicate effectively with your kids and teach them effective communication in return. Communication with children is not done in necessarily the same way as communication at your workplace with other adults. Where there is a breakdown in communication, you need to scrutinize yourself first.
When talking to a child it is a good idea to position yourself so you can speak face to face without either one of you getting a crick in their neck. This can be accomplished by kneeling or bending down to the child or by lifting the child up in your lap or in your arms. You don't need to do this every time you say, "what do you want for lunch," but for those times you really want your child to listen to you, this is a good idea. It also shows your child that you are really listening to him or her, too. Real eye contact is better accomplished when you two are on the same level.
For better communication with children it is a good idea to use simpler words. Think of the level of vocabulary that you read in a children's book. When explaining something to your child you do not want it to be plain enough so that anyone can understand; you want it plain enough so that no one can misunderstand. Remember also that merely asking your child whether he understands may not be sufficient. Ask your child to tell you back what you just said. If they can explain it back to you in their own words, and not just parroting yours, then you have good reason to believe that the child has comprehension. 
Many parents have a tendency to use too many words when talking to children. Children are notorious for having short attention spans. If you can say something in fewer words you are more likely to get your point across before their attention wanders. Sometimes this may feel like you are a master giving orders to their dog saying, "sit, stay, good boy." However, if you are brief and the children respond the way you desire, at least you have not lost their attention with your droning explanations. You can always explain more if they do not respond adequately or they ask questions. 
Another way to communicate better with children is to speak clearly using proper English. Baby talk is for use on little babies when playing with their baby babblings and it has its place. To truly be understood and to give your children the skills to make themselves understood you need to teach them their native language. 
The last point, but not the least important, to improve communication with your children is to listen to them. Let it be acceptable for your children to talk about their anger or other negative emotions. It is better for them to express these feelings in words than it is by hitting or some other inappropriate way. When your child has told you something important, let them know you are listening by repeating back to them some of what they have said in your own words. Do not always be eager to tell them what they could have done better unless they say they want your advice. As a parent in the family you have the greatest influence on how well communication with your children will be.