Imagine this. Your child comes home with the dilemma of the day. You know, often they come home and it is "The best day EVER!" But its the "Worst day EVER!" that can get us in trouble. They come home and they need to talk, but what do we want to do?
1. Sometimes we just don't want to listen at all. We shut them out, listen with one ear while we busy ourselves around the house. But know this. They KNOW we aren't listening.
2. Sometimes we kick into problem solving mode. All we focus on is how we can make the problem go away. "Well, honey, what did you do to contribute to what happened?" or "Why don't you....?"
But sometimes all we need, and by "we" that can also mean our kids, is someone to listen to us with a little bit of love. The next time your child comes home unloading a tearful mess of childhood angst on you, try the L & L method. Just listen and offer love, give them a hug or hold them as they tell their story and when they are finished, tell them that you love them. Tell them you are sorry for what happened. That's it. Sometimes, we just need to have someone listen and be compassionate. So simple, but so effective. Give this simple strategy a go and see how it works for you.
Remember to enjoy those little ones. They grow so fast!
Maria
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