Spring Growth: Communication

Despite the snow and cold weather, spring is in the air!  It won't be long before we start to see blossoms and green grass.  With spring on the horizon, "growth" becomes a topic of thought.  Not only does foliage grow in the spring, but our relationships can also grow.  Why not make this new season a season of growth for you and your family's bond?  What can increase relationship growth in my family?

Three areas of focus can assist families in building stronger relationships:  good communication, spending time together, and developing or reinforcing family traditions.  When encouraging good communication, your family will become closer and each member will feel unified in knowing more about one another.  Making efforts to spend time together increases the family bond.  Family traditions allow members to develop a closeness in which they "own" their heritage.

Let's look at good communication this week.  In the following weeks we will discuss "spending time together" and "family traditions."

Good communication is important in all relationships, but especially within the family unit.  It is important to keep communication open and to make sure that all members of the family feel comfortable enough to communicate their feelings, thoughts, or experiences.  

Be sure to encourage sharing.  Allow each member to share memorable moments from their day, as well as feelings that these moments produced.  When sharing is encouraged, communication is increased and families begin to grow their bond.

Keep all communication and sharing calm.  If a family member shares something upsetting, be careful to use language that builds up rather than getting upset and losing tempers.  Everyone has the right to share from their day and experiences without judgment.  Keep judgment to a minimum and stay calm!  If the topic brings up feelings of frustration, use techniques that encourage one another.  It is okay to disagree, but do so in a sensitive manner.  Consider the family  member's situation before making any hasty remarks.  By being considerate and keeping calm, the family bond will grow along with trust and respect.