3 Ways to Build Better Communication
Andrea Robbins • November 26, 2025
If you want your kids to talk to you more...
Want Your Child to Actually Talk to You More?
If you’ve ever asked your child, “How was your day?” only to get a shrug, a one-word answer, or total silence… you’re not alone.
Kids want to communicate and connect, but the way we approach conversations can either open the door or shut it completely.
Here are 3 simple, powerful ways to build better communication with your child (no long talks or perfect parenting required):
1. Get Curious, Not Controlling
When your child says or does something confusing or unexpected, it’s so easy to jump into lecture mode.
But curiosity creates conversations. Control creates shutdown.
Try saying:
“Help me understand what happened.”
That one sentence keeps your child’s brain open instead of defensive. It tells them: You’re safe. I’m listening.
2. Reflect What You Hear
Kids open up more when they feel seen and understood, not corrected.
A simple reflection can make all the difference:
“So you felt left out when they didn’t pick you?”
This helps your child feel seen and supported, and it builds trust much faster than advice or problem-solving.
3. Keep It Short + Safe
When kids feel overwhelmed by too many words, too much emotion, or a confusing tone, they shut down.
Use short sentences, a calm voice, and clear reassurance, like:
“You’re not in trouble. I just want to understand.”
This helps their nervous system settle so their words can flow.
Communicate to connect, and your child will follow your lead.
Best,
Andrea Robbins, M.Ed | Parent Coach | Parenting Vistas
P.S. If you're ever looking for personalized tips specific to your family, sign up for a free call, and we can get started right away.
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I'm really excited to share something new I've been working on! I'm creating a Parenting Toolkit , and the first resource of the bunch, The Cooperation Playbook, is finally here! The idea rose from my work with parents, where I kept seeing the same need: parents who want practical tools they can use in the moment, something they can easily access when they're completely overwhelmed and wondering, "What now?!" If you're a parent who is tired of repeating yourself (only to have your child still not listen) and getting stuck in power struggles, this is for you. In the Playbook , I break down the challenges behind your child not listening. Here you'll learn 6 tools to meet your child where they are, hold boundaries, and gain cooperation without yelling, threats, bribes, or rewards. You can find The Cooperation Playbook here or The full Cooperation Bundle here. The bundle includes: The Cooperation Playbook (11 pages), 2 bonus cooperation tools, a cooperation script library, and a guide on how to motivate your child for lasting cooperation I'm happy to answer any questions; you can respond directly to this email. Warmly, Andrea Robbins, M.Ed | Parent Coach | Parenting Vistas
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