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Go to a quiet place
away from noise and distractions.
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Think about the way
you like to be listened to.
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Give your child your
full attention. Don't do other things while your child is
talking.
-
Listen to your child
when she speaks, without interruption by unnecessary comments or
questions.
-
Don't give in to the
temptation to moralize or give advice.
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Keep in mind how you
would feel if you were your child.
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Encourage your child
to talk by saying things like, "Tell me more", and by asking open-ended
questions such as, "How did you feel about that?" or "Then what
happened?"
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Show interest by your
body language. For example, lean forward slightly, look at your child, nod your
head.
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Stay calm. Becoming
upset will only add to your child's distress.
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Listen for feelings
as well as facts. Listen to your child's tone of voice and body language as
well as listening to her words.
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Don't allow yourself
to get sidetracked by your own issues.