By Taylor Barnhill - bio | email | Twitter
COLUMBUS, GA (WTVM) - No matter what age your child is, communication is key. In this week's "Be There" we share some helpful tips to break the ice with your kids.
It's a habit most parents start early on -- talking with your kids, but sometimes as they get older, a gap starts to form and your children don't always come to you like they used to.
We spoke to a Juvenile Facilitator, Darlene Smith, who helps parents bridge that gap. She tells us that every age group has a different communication method parents should try. Remember eye contact is important, try to respect their privacy, take a leadership role in the conversation and most importantly... Listen.
Smith told News Leader Nine, "That primary relationship with the parent is a place where they want to go and they want to be sharing and growing and enjoying being cultivated in their own homes. That is a joy and something to look forward to as a family even when there's a conflict."
Another helpful tip is if you want your kids to practice a certain type of communication, be the model for that behavior. Smith also suggests initiating conversations in a relaxed environment and not to force the kids to talk if they don't want to.
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