Sometimes, as adults, we forget that our children have thoughts and concerns just as adults do. So we are quick to insist that children obey without really giving any second thought to how they may view the situation or problem. If you do not at some point learn to “hear” what your child's opinion or viewpoint, this can lead to lack of communication later.

While you may not necessarily agree with your child's view, it is important to let your child know that you are willing to listen. You may actually be surprised at times, that your child has complex views and thoughts that may actually be valid. On many occasions, especially with younger children, the viewpoint may be absolutely ludicrous, but at least your child will know that you have acknowledged that he/she has thoughts and feelings also.

When you take the time to listen to your child, it teaches your child how to effectively “hear” what others have to say before dismissing others' ideas and thoughts completely. In this way, your child becomes a more effective communicator as an adult.

While listening to your child's viewpoint is important, this does not mean that you should give in or change your own decision/s. It is your responsibility as the parent to make the decisions that are best for your child and also to help your child understand why your decisions are better than their own. This means acknowledging that you have heard their viewpoint and gently showing them the flaws in the their thought processes. Eventually, your child will grow to think more rationally about his/her everyday decisions and make better choices.

Effective listening is a tool that helps to teach your child better communication skills. When you take the time to actively listen to what your child has to say, they learn from your example. It teaches them and shows them that they should also listen and be considerate when others are expressing themselves.

Learning to be a better listener when your child is expressing himself also shows your child that he can come to you with all of his concerns and issues. This is extremely important as your child grows older and becomes more independent. If you let your children know that you are willing to hear what they have to say, then they are more likely to come to you when they need help or have a problem.