Teaching Children The Art Of Conversation

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Teaching Children The Art Of Conversation

by Katy Mack
(Melbourne)

The Art of Children's Conversation

We have a fabulous game called, TAOC® The Art of Conversation, which has changed our family life for the better in so many ways.

Rather than the television and computers, we turn off the screens from Monday to Friday while we have dinner and we talk about all sorts of topics. Even our teenagers participate, and I think this is because this game sets guidelines, where everyone takes a turn at speaking, so the rest of the family learns to listen. It's not about one-upping each other, or smart remarks, it's about things that matter.

We are finding our relationships are better, because apart from having high quality time together, we understand each other better because we have learned to listen to each person's opinions and discuss varied issues.

I'm making it sound very serious, but we have lots of laughs too.

The family dinner table used to be the place where the day's experiences and thoughts were shared, but life is pretty intrusive these days, and lots of families don't take the time to sit and talk. TAOC has given us topics and ground rules that help us communicate as a family in much more in depth ways than we used to.

My sister was co-developer of these resources. I am proud of that because I know how much it has helped our family, and many others. One of my children was adopted from another country, and I think that TAOC has helped her become attached and bond with us - she feels validated and loved, and listened to.

Even our extended family dysfunctional gathering ended up being fun as we put this on the table during that after dinner slump! TAOC® not only helped my children to become confident speakers and attentive listeners, it has proved to be great fun for people of all ages.

Of course I'm biased, but I really do believe, this is probably the best money you will ever spend on a family game!

The Art of Children's Conversation

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Annie Recommends

There is so much confusing information out there about parenting, it can be hard to know how to cover all bases.

If you are worried about your child's development in some areas, or want some ongoing expert parenting tips, then check out Dr Rosina's Inspired Children - Life Skills for Kids.

She has a carefully designed membership program that will give you activities and advice, delivered to your inbox each week/fortnight (depending upon membership level).

Each activity is designed to help your child develop key life skills like good self esteem, managing emotions and behaviour, health, nutrition, dealing with bullying and so much more.

Life Skills For Kids

Benefits for Parents

Stop feeling guilty about not spending time with your child
Know your child is learning key life skills
Stop worrying
Know rather than hope that your child is on the right track
Curbs undesirable attention seeking behaviours in your child
Know that your time is quality time doing the activities with your child
Educational as well as fun
Sense of satisfaction at the positive difference you are making in your child?s life
Creates an opportunity for you to bond with your child

Benefits for Children

Creates a strong platform for a happy, balanced and successful life
Helps them to know you are interested and care
Develops self confidence
Develops resilience
Develops independence and practical life skills
Improves their ability to communicate
Develops emotional intelligence
Helps them to feel happier and most importantly, helps them to feel more loved!
Educational and fun

Dr. Rosina McAlpine is an Associate Professor at the University of Sydney, and has received numerous awards for her work in education. Her program is a holistic approach to child development spanning 7 key areas of life.

I think this is a great resource for busy Moms - it takes ages sifting and sorting what your child needs, or finding a great activity that has a good learning focus for your kids. It covers all bases, and makes it easy to spend quality time with your kids, knowing they are learning valuable skills that will be with them for life. Life Skills For Kids would also make a great resource for homes-schoolers.

Life Skills For Kids

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