The Importance of Listening

"More and more, I have come to understand that listening is one of the most important things we can do for one another.” – Fred Rogers

Listening is one of the most important parts of building a relationship. It helps us learn about what children enjoy, what they worry about and what they want and need. When we listen effectively and non-judgmentally, it demonstrates to children that they can trust us because we care about them and what they have to say.

Here are some helpful tips for listening to children:

• Make one-on-one time
• Be at a child’s level by kneeling or sitting down
• Be open to whatever a child says

Take a look at this post from the Fred Rogers Center about how listening to children helps build better relationships.