In an ideal world, our children would always come to us if they have a problem. But in reality they may feel that you’re too busy to listen, or that you’ll be cross with them, or that they should keep whatever’s bothering them a secret. Here are some more tips for encouraging them to open up to you about anything that may be bothering them. You could also take a look at our tips for building an open, trusting relationship with your child.
Tip #1: Have some ‘alone time’
Tip #1: Have some ‘alone time’
Tip #2: ‘Good’ secrets and ‘bad’ secrets
Tip #2: ‘Good’ secrets and ‘bad’ secrets
Tip #3: If you can’t say anything nice…
Tip #3: If you can’t say anything nice…
Tip #4: Be on the look out for hints
Tip #4: Be on the look out for hints
Tip #5: Show you care in other ways
Tip #5: Show you care in other ways
Tip #6: Put yourself in their shoes
Tip #6: Put yourself in their shoes
What should I do if a child does come to me with a problem?
Tip #1: Listen
Tip #1: Listen
Tip #2: Praise them for speaking up
Tip #2: Praise them for speaking up
Tip #3: Be compassionate
Tip #3: Be compassionate
Tip #4: Put away your magic wand
Tip #4: Put away your magic wand
Tip #5: Stay calm
Tip #5: Stay calm
Tip #6: Don’t tell
Tip #6: Don’t tell
Where can I get help?
Depending on what your child tells you, you may need to get help or support from another person, such as their teacher, your GP, or a support organisation. You can find links to lots of organisations that can help with a wide range of issues in our Family Support Directory.