One of the most frustrating challenges all of us face as parents is interacting effectively with our child. Although we strive to open an honest two-way line of communication with our child, all of us become frustrated when it appears their attention isn't solely on us or the conversation at hand. Yet we seem to find it is perfectly acceptable to discuss things with them while reading the actual paper, folding clothes, or even working on the computer and then are often left wondering when the outlines of communication broke.

One of the most frustrating challenges all of us face as parents is interacting effectively with our child. Although we strive to open an honest two-way line of communication with our child, all of us become frustrated when it appears their attention isn't solely on us or the conversation at hand. Yet we seem to find it is perfectly acceptable to discuss things with them while reading the actual paper, folding clothes, or even working on the computer and then are often left wondering when the outlines of communication broke.

Children are by nature easily distracted and not usually responsive to their environment. It's the responsibility of the parent to emphasize positive patterns of communication and ensure the child discovers that ignoring communication is not acceptable. Early prevention, as educating your child about the correct forms of communication, is the key in order to ensuring that the non-verbal agreement doesn't take hold. Teach your child through example. Remain completely and completely focused on them and the conversation at hand. Turn off the television; allow calls to go to the voicemail, or go in a room where there are no distractions.

Talk to your kid, and explain to them within age-appropriate terms how they are communicating and why their method doesn't work. Show your child how to communicate effectively, even when the queries are hard. Make yourself an active listener. Let them voice their viewpoint or side of the story and ask questions to ensure you understand their viewpoint.

Be continuous in the manner in which you communicate with you child. Send exactly the same message with each and every interaction. Allow your child to see that you'll call their attention to those times that the unwanted behavior shows its ugly head.

Children will be kids and they will occasionally be distractive and non-communicative. You are the professional in knowing your child's behavior and can best judge the improvement in their communications. The best way to make sure healthy communication patterns is to model positive communication skills.