Communication is important in every type of relationship. While most people understand how essential it is to communicate effectively in romantic relationships, it’s just as crucial with your family. Whether you live under the same roof or have grown children out on their own, healthy communication should always be a priority.
So, how can you communicate effectively as a family? Which strategies can you use to stay connected and supportive?
1. Establish Routines
Everyone benefits from routine—kids and adults alike. While you might already have routines for your kids, following them yourself is important. Routines provide a sense of comfort, familiarity, and security. When you have those things in a family environment, you’re more likely to be open with each other. Everyone knows what to expect and exactly what’s going on, which helps with vulnerability.
2. Schedule Family Time
It might sound a little cliche, but scheduling time together as a family is one of the most effective ways to boost communication. However, making the most of that time will make a difference. Whether it’s a weekly dinner, a nightly walk around the neighborhood, or even a daily phone call with your adult children, make sure that time is completely dedicated to each other. Make sure your family time doesn’t involve electronic devices or other distractions.
3. Spend Time With Each Person
Whether you live with a big family or just a few of you under one roof, communication can sometimes struggle when an individual isn’t being seen, heard, or valued. You can combat that by deliberately spending one-on-one time with each family member. Maybe you schedule that time together each week, or perhaps it’s more spontaneous. Either way, dedicating a specific time to each person will help them feel valued and heard. Not only will it make them more likely to open up, but it can boost their self-esteem and overall well-being.
4. Practice Active Listening
People often forget that listening is one of the most important parts of communicating. That means more than just hearing what someone has to say. Active listening includes responding to what’s being said. You should ask questions, confirm your understanding statements, and use body language to let the other person know they have your full attention. Active listening will always make for better conversations, and you’ll learn more about your family than you ever thought possible.
5. Show Gratitude
It’s not uncommon for family members to have minimal communication unless there’s a problem, or someone wants to place blame on someone else. Instead of waiting until there’s an issue to dissect, choose to actively show gratitude and kindness toward your family members. If your child does something kind for you, tell them how much you appreciate them. Talk to your spouse about your day, and let them know how appreciative you are when they listen. These little moments of gratitude go a long way and will help everyone become more willing to share their appreciation.
6. Stay Connected No Matter What
Even if you’re not all living together, staying connected with your family as much as possible is important. Effective communication doesn’t have to stop when your kids move out.
Thankfully, technology makes it easier than ever to continue communicating, but you have to be willing to take the time for it. Talk to your kids regularly on the phone or through video chats. Stay updated with what’s going on in their lives. No matter how grown they might seem, they could always use some advice or just a listening ear.
It’s not always easy to make enough time for communication nowadays. There’s no denying we’re living in a busy, fast-paced world. However, by putting some of these strategies into practice, you can boost your connection with your family and foster healthy communication habits that will last a lifetime.
Need more?
If you’re interested in learning how to implement more effective communication strategies or explore how poor communication impacts your relationships, please consider accessing services at Wellness Matters or elsewhere. Nowadays, getting support is more convenient than ever before. At Wellness Matters, the intake process is all on-line which lessens the time to get started in services. On-line appointments make it possible to attend from the comfort from your home or office. In-person services may also be available.
Read about the therapists at Wellness Matters who provide private services in the “About Us” tab. You can connect with the Wellness Matters Intake Coordinator by texting or calling 218-616-1276.
