Most people think that, for the most part, communication involves speaking.  However, all the great communicators throughout history knew this secret:  That the foundation of effective communication is based on what we discussed in Class 101:  Listening Deeply & Giving Our Close & Undivided Attention. 

Let’s take a look at what happens in communication.  There is a sender of information, a receiver, and a medium (e.g., spoken, written, visual, etc).  Next, there is a reason for the communication.  The reason is based on a desire or goal of the sender.  In parenting, the parent either wants the child to do or not do something.  However, before sending the message, it is better to first ask questions, listen to the answers, and discover what is causing the behavior (ruling out, of course, that there isn’t immanent danger that could harm the child).  If so, then immediate intervention is required (and communication comes later).