From establishing a catchphrase to speaking quietly, here are 7 simple tips to get your toddler to pay attention and listen up!
Most toddlers can hear just fine, but you wouldn’t know it from the way they act! It’s tough to get their attention, but it’s important that they understand when it’s time to listen to you.
As a parent, it can be difficult to get your toddler to pay attention and listen, but it’s essential for their growth and development.
With a few simple tricks and some patience, you can help your little one learn to listen when it matters.
Tips to Get Your Toddler to Pay Attention and Listen Up!
1. Establish a Catchphrase
Find a word or sound that means “Listen Up!” and use it every time you want your child to focus on what you’re saying. Make sure to set a good example when you use it, and watch out – your child might start using it on you too!
2. Make Eye Contact
When you need your child to listen, get physically down on their level and make eye contact. Hold their chin gently and use your catchphrase from above to grab their attention. Over time, they’ll begin to associate your catchphrase with listening and start paying attention.
3. Focus on the Positives
Instead of just using a lot of “No’s,” try to make listening a positive experience for your child. Start using your catchphrase to praise them for good behavior, such as eating all of their dinner or putting away their toys.
4. Eliminate Distractions
Turn off the TV and step away from toys to help your child focus. When you’re out and about, try to find a quiet spot to get your child’s attention that is free from distractions.
5. Whisper, Don’t Shout
If your child isn’t listening, it can be tempting to raise your voice, but try speaking in a quieter tone instead. This will spark their curiosity, and they’ll come to investigate. Speaking in a softer voice also sets a good example for quiet behavior.
6. Try Yoga Breathing
This simple breathing exercise is a great way to get your child’s attention and help them focus at the same time. Lead them in a deep breathing exercise where they lift their hands over their head as they inhale and lower them as they exhale. This will get their attention and calm them down, making them more receptive to listening.
7. Be Patient
This goes for your child as well yourself! Remember, listening is a vital skill that takes time and patience to develop. Set a good example by being patient with your child and teaching them to be a better listener.
Getting Your Toddler to Listen isn’t Impossible
Teaching your toddler to listen can be a frustrating task, but it’s well worth the effort. By establishing a catchphrase, making eye contact, focusing on the positives, eliminating distractions, whispering instead of shouting, trying yoga breathing, and being patient, you can help your little one develop their listening skills and set them up for success in the future.
Practice with the day-to-day stuff so that in an emergency, your child will have the skills to pay attention when it really counts.
Looking for things to do with your toddler? Check out our list of our favorite books for 2 year olds!