Talking is only half of a conversation. The other half is listening. Good listeners use their eyes, their bodies and their ears.
Key idea
To listen well: look at the person talking, keep your body still, and wait until they finish.
Why it works
When you look at someone, it is easier to hear and understand them. It also shows them you care about what they say.
Here is a trick to remember: eyes on the speaker, body still, ears open, mouth waiting.
Worked example: Let's practice
Grandpa Walt is telling Sam about a fishing trip. Sam is building with blocks. What should Sam do?
- Grandpa is talking to Sam.
- Sam puts the blocks down.
- He looks at Grandpa and listens until he is done.
Answer: Sam stops, looks at Grandpa, and listens.
Common mistake
Looking around or playing while someone talks, then saying “What?” Looking at the speaker helps you hear, and it shows you care.
For the grown-up. Get down to your child's eye level when you talk, and listen the same way when they talk to you. Play “Simon says” or tell a short story and ask one question about it afterward.