Effective Communication: The Power of a Written Note

When problems come up or children misbehave, effective communication is key to changing the situation. Can writing a note to a child with good old pen and paper be effective?  It sure can! Lauren discusses the sixth of her “7 Disarming Communication Tactics” in this episode: the “Written Note” Strategy. Part of the reason this strategy works is because it removes any tone or emotion from the message. This option gives you a chance to cool down before responding. With less emotion in the message, kiddos are less likely to feel criticized or bossed around. The body’s stress response system REALLY likes that! Lauren also talks about the best ways to use this strategy and how it can be most effective. One great reason to communicate with a note?  When feeling stressed or emotionally reactive, slowing down to write a quick note really helps you to cool down and get your thoughts organized. It stops you from saying things in the heat of the moment that you did not intend. Remember – When making changes like this, give both yourself and your kiddos some grace. YOU are learning a new “language”, and THEY need time to understand it. Mentioned in this episode:Pneumonic for the 7 Communication Tactics: SCHWINFBetween Parent and Child - book by Dr. Haim GinottOther books by Haim GinottLauren answers this week’s listener question during the episode: What do you do when kids argue or talk back? Try-at-home tip: Use Lavender.Other related resources from The Behavior Hub: Blog Post: Effective Communication: The Power of a Written NoteImprove Communication by Giving Kids ChoicesPositive Communication: Give Children a Problem to SolvePodcast:Why Behaviors Occur - The 5 Needs AreasOur Online Courses: From Conflict to Calm: Communicating so kids listen the FIRST time From Wild Emotions to Tamed Feelings – How to Self-Regulate (5 Needs Areas)Do you have a question? I can answer it in a future episode!Email questions to [email protected] or send via text to 717-693-7744.Subscribe to our mailing list and find out more about the Emotional Brain.Check out our Facebook Group – Raising and Teaching Respectful Children The Behavior Hub websiteThe Behavior Hub blogAre you struggling with behaviors and not sure where to begin? Let me help! Schedule a free discovery call and let me be your Guide.As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.