Attention all parents! Are you a good listener?

It is quite easy for parents to overlook the importance of truly listening to their children. A good listener is important in building a strong and healthy relationship with our kids. Children who feel heard and understood by their parents are more likely to develop better emotional health and social skills. Here’s why and how parents should aim to be attentive listeners.

Building a relationship based on trust and understanding starts with active listening.When parents listen to their children without interrupting, judging, or jumping to conclusions, it sends a powerful message: "I value what you have to say." This creates an environment where children feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions. A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that children who feel understood by their parents tend to have higher self-esteem and are more resilient in the face of challenges.

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognise, understand, and manage our own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. For children, developing this skill begins at home. With the help of active listening, parents can guide their children to label and understand their feelings. According to a study by John Gottman, children who learn to identify and articulate their emotions are better equipped to handle stress and build positive relationships later in life.


Good listening habits not only strengthen the parent-child bond but also enhance a child's communication skills. When parents model effective listening behaviours, such as maintaining eye contact, nodding, and responding appropriately, children learn to mirror these skills in their interactions with others. The Harvard Graduate School of Education reports that children who communicate well are more likely to succeed academically and socially.


Many instances of misbehaviour in children stem from feelings of frustration and being misunderstood. When parents take the time to listen, they can identify underlying issues and address them before they escalate into behavioural problems. A study in the Journal of Family Psychology suggests that children who feel heard by their parents are less likely to exhibit aggressive or disruptive behaviours.


Listening is a significant part of any strong relationship, including the one between parent and child. When parents become good listeners, they can create a lasting bond built on mutual respect and understanding. This bond can endure the challenges of adolescence and beyond, providing a foundation for a healthy and supportive family dynamic.