Helping your child listen doesn’t have to be a battle. In this Top Tips Series, we explore simple, effective strategies that foster better communication and cooperation between you and your child. From getting down to their level to using positive language and concise instructions, these tips are designed to make everyday interactions smoother and more meaningful. Whether it’s encouraging good behaviour or ensuring your child truly understands what you’re saying, these practical approaches can help build a more respectful and responsive relationship.

• Get down to their level – when you lower yourself down to your child’s level you not only verify they can see and hear you, it strengthens communication too.
• Do away with “don’t” – negative commands such as “don’t” and “no” require children to double process, instead of saying “Don’t leave your toys on the floor” try “Please put your toys away”.
• Say Yes to “Yes” – look for reasons to say “Yes” more often, instead of “No, we can’t go to the park” try “The park sounds great but we’ll go after tea”.
• Shorten your speech – when trying to get your child’s attention, be concise and they won’t have time to tune out!
• Saying “Thank-You” in advance – helps your children to make an appropriate choice. “Thank you for hanging up your towel after your bath” will encourage good behaviour.
• Ensure comprehension – a simple way to ensure your child has heard you and that they understand ask them to repeat back what you said.
• Make an observation – if you see a task that’s been left, don’t dive in with the big reprimand, Just make an OBSERVATION; “I can see that your coat is on the floor” or you could ask “What’s your plan for hanging your coat up?”
• Do away with the DON’T. Tell your child WHAT TO DO instead.

Helpful websites and support

• NHS – Talking to your teenager
• Parent Talk by Action for Children – parenting advice, behaviour and communication tips, SEND support, and emotional wellbeing resources.
• Family Lives – Provides a free helpline, online forums, and expert advice on parenting challenges including listening skills, behaviour, and emotional development.
• NSPCC Parenting Advice – Offers practical guidance on positive parenting, managing behaviour, and keeping children safe.
• CBeebies parenting – Helps parents develop their child’s communication skills through videos, activities, and expert tips.