How to Make Children Listen- A Borrowed Post

All to often during the day I find I've reached a point of frustration- you know when you've said something for about the 15th time and have gotten no results. It is usually in this moment when I begin to raise my voice. I truly DON'T want to be this way, it's just what tends to happen. Nonetheless the Lord used Amy's post over @ the finer things to teach me something today, I will ponder on it thouroughly.
James 1:19-20
My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.


Amy writes...

As with the vast majority of my “advice” posts, I’m writing this as a reminder to self.

When things get out of control in the house – fighting children, someone disobeying or not listening, chaos ensuing – my knee-jerk reaction is sometimes to get big and loud. Get their attention from across the room. Raise my own voice. Show them what they sound like, as I stomp over to let them know who’s boss. (Yes. Very mature, mom.)

That works if high blood pressure and tears are the goal. Me? I’d rather not spend the rest of the day as Queen of the Loser Moms, though.

What’s most effective for me when I need a child’s attention or need someone to knock it off right now? I lower my voice. Get small, kneeling at their level. Whisper, even. An amazing thing happens when I react quietly.

They get quiet, too.

They listen, because they have to. I’m whispering, remember? We all calm down and can assess the situation without a loud, ugly fight. Even if the entire problem can’t be solved right at that moment, we can be close. And quiet. And civil. Peaceful, even.

A peaceful home really works for me!

Thanks Amy!