What is important when listening to what children say?

Showing that you are listening is crucial when engaging with children because it conveys to them that their thoughts and feelings are valued. Active listening can be demonstrated through non-verbal cues such as maintaining eye contact, nodding, and using affirming gestures. This practice helps build trust and encourages children to express themselves more openly.

When children feel heard, it fosters their self-esteem and allows for healthy communication, which is vital for their social and emotional development. It also reinforces the idea that what they say matters, which can enhance their willingness to share ideas and feelings in the future. In an educational setting, this approach not only supports language development but also strengthens the child-teacher relationship, creating a more conducive learning environment.