You can probably think of at least one conversation in which you felt completely connected to the person you were talking with -- and at least one conversation you left feeling dissatisfied because of a lack of understanding between you and the other person.
For instance, consider the following conversation:
Teen: "Hey, can I go to Jamie's tomorrow night?"
Parent: "Will Jamie's parents be there? Who else will be there?"
The teenager could respond appropriately to, and compromise with, her parent or -- the teenager could react in a different way, perhaps left feeling frustrated and unheard.
Teaching children communication skills early on has a significant impact on their success in several sectors. Not only does it improve family interactions, it cultivates healthy peer relationships and enhances classroom performance. By exploring and practicing skills such as active listening, clarification, direct response and negotiation, parents can help children manage their own emotions successfully.
Although you can't guarantee that every conversation will be great, with a handful of skills, communication can be easier and more satisfying.
Sponsored by Carp Cares for Youth and the City of Carpinteria, Kandace will be offering a free seminar for local teens in the Carpinteria area on Thursday, August 4th, 2011. Teens will explore topics including negotiation, assertiveness, and compromise. For more information visit www.carpcares.org or email info@carpcares.org
Kandace Overgaag is a Marriage and Family Therapist Intern and is currently practicing in the Santa Barbara area. Kandace believes that therapy is a positive, growth-oriented process. She works with patients on a variety of life's challenges including self-esteem issues, relationship problems, effective communication and more. Visit www.therapeuticbenefits.com for more information.
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