Hello, I am Dr. Li Liqiang, a pediatrician at Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University. Today, I will talk to you about the significant differences between children who talk a lot and those who talk less. How should parents cultivate this?
In the journey of a child’s growth, every subtle expression can become the cornerstone of shaping their future character and abilities. The seemingly simple behavior characteristics of “talking a lot” and “talking less” actually carry profound meanings.
1. Emergence of personality and communication style
Children who talk a lot: They are often confident, outgoing, and willing to express their thoughts and feelings. In a group, they are more likely to become the center of attention, attracting others. This positive communication attitude helps them establish a wide range of interpersonal relationships and enhance social skills. However, without guidance, it may lead to being overly self-centered and lacking the habit of listening to others’ opinions.
Children who talk less: They may be more introverted, cautious, and tend to think before speaking. Such children often demonstrate strong concentration and creativity when alone. However, prolonged silence may hinder the development of their social skills, making them feel uncomfortable in teamwork or public situations.
2. Differences after ten years: Manifestation of communication to comprehensive abilities
Academic and professional aspects: In academics, children who can communicate effectively are better at asking questions and discussing solutions, thus gaining more support and resources in the learning process. In the workplace, they can quickly integrate into teams, effectively convey their ideas, and drive project progress. On the other hand, children who talk less may appear passive in expressing themselves and seizing opportunities, missing out on growth opportunities.
Emotions and social interactions: Communication is the bridge for emotional exchange. Children who talk a lot can build and maintain profound interpersonal relationships, receive emotional support through sharing and listening. Conversely, children who talk less may appear clumsy in emotional expression, fail to form strong emotional bonds, affecting psychological well-being and happiness.
Leadership and influence: Outstanding leaders often possess excellent communication skills. Through long-term practice, children who talk a lot may be more likely to develop leadership qualities and the ability to persuade others. Children who talk less may need additional efforts, such as learning public speaking skills and boosting confidence, to enhance their leadership and influence.
3. How can parents cultivate effective communication skills?
Encourage expression, respect differences: Firstly, parents should recognize that each child is unique and respect their personality differences. For children who talk a lot, encourage them to express themselves systematically; for children who talk less, create a safe environment and encourage them to gradually open up.
Role-playing and simulation exercises: Through games or role-playing, let children practice communication skills in different scenarios in a safe environment, such as asking for help, expressing gratitude, resolving conflicts, etc.
Cultivate listening habits: Regardless of whether children talk a lot or talk less, they should learn to listen. Parents can demonstrate and guide children to understand the importance of listening and learn to give sufficient attention and respect to others during communication.
Reading and discussion: Encourage children to read various types of books, especially those that stimulate thinking and discussion. Afterwards, discuss the content with children, guide them to express their viewpoints and feelings, and exercise their thinking and communication abilities.
Positive feedback and encouragement: When children attempt to communicate and make progress, parents should promptly provide positive feedback and encouragement, boosting their confidence and motivation.
“Talking a lot” and “talking less” are just the initial manifestations of a child’s communication style, and the cultivation of effective communication skills is crucial. Parents should adopt suitable methods according to their children’s actual situations, guiding them to gradually enhance this vital ability and lay a solid foundation for their future growth. #Dr. Li Liqiang, Pediatrician#
