Teaching Kids to Communicate Effectively
“Effective communication isn’t something kids just “figure out”—it’s a skill, and like any skill, it needs to be taught and practiced.”
We all want kids to express themselves clearly, listen to others, and handle disagreements like pros. But effective communication isn’t something kids just “figure out”—it’s a skill, and like any skill, it needs to be taught and practiced.
Good communication helps kids succeed in relationships, at school, and even in sports or extracurricular activities. The best part? You don’t need a formal lesson plan to teach it. With a few intentional strategies, you can help kids build communication skills they’ll use for a lifetime.
Applied Hope Tip #1: Teach Active Listening
Most people listen to reply, not to understand—kids included! Teaching kids how to really listen is a game-changer for better communication. Active listening isn’t just about hearing words; it’s about showing the other person they’re understood and valued.
How to Do It:
Model it yourself: When your child is talking, put down the phone, make eye contact, and repeat back what you heard. For example: “So, you’re saying you felt left out at recess today?”
With younger kids - play a game: Try a game like “Echo Back,” where one person says something, and the other repeats it in their own words. For example: “I love spaghetti.” → “You’re saying spaghetti is your favorite!” It’s fun, low-pressure, and builds listening skills.
Why It Works:
Active listening helps kids feel heard, which encourages them to do the same for others. It also reduces misunderstandings and shows kids how to approach conversations with empathy and focus.
Applied Hope Tip #2: Practice Expressing Feelings and Needs
Kids often struggle to articulate how they’re feeling or what they need, which can lead to frustration or outbursts. Teaching them how to use clear, simple language to express emotions and needs helps them communicate more effectively—and calmly.
How to Do It:
“I” statements for the win: Teach kids to say things like, “I feel upset when my toys get taken without asking,” or “I feel annoyed when Jack walks away when I am still talking” instead of lashing out or blaming.
Name emotions: Help them identify their feelings by saying, “It sounds like you’re feeling frustrated because of how practice went.” This builds their emotional vocabulary and confidence in expressing themselves.
Why It Works:
When kids learn to name their emotions and needs, they’re better equipped to handle conflicts and advocate for themselves. It also helps them feel in control of their emotions instead of being overwhelmed by them.
A Finishing Touch:
Communication is a skill kids will use every single day, in every area of their lives. By teaching active listening and showing them how to express their feelings and needs, you’re giving them tools for better relationships, stronger self-confidence, and a whole lot less frustration.
Start small. The next time a child in your life is upset, help them name their feelings or practice an “I” statement. Or play a quick listening game during dinner or car rides to get the conversation flowing.
Because when kids learn to communicate effectively, they’re not just learning to talk—they’re learning to connect, understand, and thrive.
Meet your blogger….
Meghan Miller, PsyD, LP, is a clinical psychologist who is passionate about helping children, teens, and families. She earned her degree in Clinical Psychology with a focus on Child and Family Therapy from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology in 2011. Throughout her career, Dr. Miller has worked in community mental health centers, addiction treatment programs, and residential care facilities, providing therapy and psychological assessments to people of all ages. She cares deeply about making a broad impact and has developed programs to support students' success and personal growth. With over 10 years of experience coaching gymnastics, Dr. Miller combines her knowledge of mental health with her love of working with young athletes to help them build confidence and reach their potential.
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