Giving our Children a Voice

Giving our children a voice

Learning to talk is hard when you are starting out as a young child.

We encourage our children to talk by repeating everything to them, until they learn the sound and the context. Then they master the use of words and we as parents wonder sometimes if they will ever be quiet again.

So, how do we teach our children to have a voice that will help in life to solve social issues.

• Be fully present when our children are talking to us. Take time to look at them when they are talking to you.
• Let your children tell you a story even if it seems far- fetched, some children are prone to exaggeration. All children feel validated when they are listened to.
• Let your child speak for themselves, it is hard for some children who are shy to talk to strangers. We as parents become their voice. Gently encourage them to ask questions, over time they will gain confidence in themselves.
• When your child confides in you or confesses to doing wrong, take time to breathe. First, thank them for being honest, honesty goes a long way in this world. Try to be considered in teaching your child consequences. Encourage them to think what they could have done better.

There is a good chance that someday, our children will find themselves in a difficult situation and they’ll have a choice — either to suffer in silence or to speak up. Perhaps that will be the moment they will remember your eyes, the nodding of your head, and your thoughtful response, when they practiced talking with you and suddenly, they will be reminded that their voice holds value. When you believe your voice holds value, it can make a life-changing difference.

Deborah Wood
Mother, Grandmother
Faith Formation Team Member