Young Minds

As I was driving down the road, from the back seat came this tiny little voice. "Why we going down this road?". I replied, "This is the way we go to Mamma's house." Almost as soon as I have finished speaking came, "Where?". I answered him with a smile, "Just a little ways down this road, honey.". Immediately in response to my answer, "Why?", My little grandson has a million questions. This is how he and all children learn. My teenage son gets a little frustrated. Sometimes his nephew will repeatedly ask him the same questions over and over again.

It's amazing how the older I get, the more patience I seem to have then the younger generation of today. I will always answer each of his questions. Sometimes I even check his retention and listening skills, and ask him the question back. He always responds with what I have previously told him.

Communication at any age is extremely important. It fuels their effectiveness in society with social skills. Open communication is the foundation of forming strong relationships with others. As a parent or grandparent, we should always take the time to teach children, to effectively interact with others. Even with my teenage son, I try to teach him how body language will even communicate to other people. I told him most people can read body language. They can tell if you are angry, frustrated, happy, sad, and even depressed. I've explained to him one's tone will also allow someone to know what kind of a mood you are in.

Just remember as a parent or grandparent, when you hear that little voice ask, "Where? or Why?", they are learning. Learning about the world, and by the answers you give, you are teaching them how to communicate. Be patient, they sense frustration as well. You are helping to develop their minds and communication skills for life.

Patience. Be careful how you respond and what you say. Good or bad leaves a lasting impression on the young and curious minds.