Listening starts with making room for what a child is experiencing. These examples focus on an attentive response and respecting how a child wants to connect.
Reflect the experience before problem-solving
When a toy breaks, a short observation about the child seeming upset makes room for a response. Pause before offering a solution or deciding how they should feel.
THE POINT TO REMEMBER
Reflecting the experience makes space for their feelings.
Respect a child’s answer to an offered hug
Ask before offering physical connection and respect a refusal. You can remain nearby and available without insisting on a hug.
THE POINT TO REMEMBER
Physical connection should respect their consent.
Read it. Try it. Come back to why.
Read one point at a time, then use the linked scenario to check your understanding. The practice is a chance to return to the explanation and reflect, rather than a measure of parenting ability.
Practise all 2 questions →