Communicating with a toddler can be challenging. Between big emotions, limited attention spans and speech abilities, understanding their needs and ensuring they understand you can be a challenge. However, one effective strategy for better communication is to get down to your child’s level when talking to them.

Why Getting Down on Their Level Matters

Getting down to your toddler’s eye level when speaking has significant benefits. By making eye contact, you capture your child’s attention more effectively. This approach is less intimidating for the child and makes it easier for them to absorb what you’re saying.

Getting down to the child’s level conveys a powerful message: “You are important, and I want to respond to you.” This act shows emotional presence, making the child feel valued and heard.

Building Empathy and Positive Guidance

The early years are critical for developing a strong parent-child relationship. When parents communicate at their child’s level, it fosters empathy and caring behavior in the child. It’s also an effective way to discipline positively. Instead of shouting from a height, speaking eye-to-eye is more likely to capture the child’s attention and promote understanding.

Active Listening

Being down at your child’s eye level also involves active listening, which is crucial for effective communication. This doesn’t always mean crouching down; you can also hold your child or sit together. The key is to stop what you’re doing and focus on your child.

Active listening builds a child’s confidence and encourages them to express their feelings. Avoid interrupting them and be patient as they learn to communicate. Offer encouraging comments like, “I really appreciate you telling me how you feel.”

Start Early and Be Consistent

Start communicating positively from infancy. Talk to your infant, and as they grow and start becoming mobile, continue engaging with them. If you missed this early stage, it’s never too late to start. Spend quality time together, engage in activities they enjoy, and make time for one-on-one interactions.

Encouraging your child, setting aside playtime, and building positive listening habits will strengthen your relationship and foster better communication. Remember, effective communication at your child’s level not only improves their listening skills but also helps them feel loved and valued.