How to Talk so Kids Will Hear You
by The Mom Psychologist, IG Link click here

1. Start with connection before direction
   • Move close to your child
   • Get down to your level
   • Make eye contact
   • Say something like,
     “Hey sweetie, looks like you’re enjoying that game.
     Finish what you’re working on and then we’re going to get ready to go.
     Let’s put those shoes on together”
2. Give clear, specific requests (not questions)
   • “It’s time to put the blocks in the blue bin and the cars in the red basket.”
3. Build in transition time
   • Give a heads up
     • “In 5 minutes, we’ll need to clean up for dinner.”
     • “Two more slides and then it’s time to go.”
     • “Would you like to put your pajamas on first or brush teeth first?”
4. After giving a direction, PAUSE and wait
   • Give our child time to process
   • Count to 10 silently in your head after giving a direction
5. If no movement after waiting, add action to your words
   • × Repeating yourself louder
   • ☑ Move closer and help initiate the action,
     “Let me help you get started”
     (while gently guiding them toward the task)
     “Here, I’ll hold the basket while you put in the toys…”
6. Acknowledge the difficulty while maintaining boundary
7. Practice makes progress
   • Start with small, easy requests when everyone is calm.
   • Build up their “listening muscle” gradually.
   • Notice and point out when they follow through the first time
     “Wow, you came right over when I called you! That really helps our family run smoothly.”
8. Remember:
   Your calm consistency is more powerful than your loud urgency