Speaking & Listening to What Children Say

Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, Hope Children’s Home provides a positive Christian atmosphere to children facing challenging life situations. Hope Children’s Home is overseen by Dr. Mike Higgins, the executive director and a longtime licensed counselor..

In a February 2021 article published on HopeChildrensHome.org, Dr. Higgins emphasizes the importance of showing honor and respect toward young people in one’s charge. This is reflected in forms of expression that are peaceable, gentle, and imbued with mercy.

This fair and balanced approach is detailed in the book of James in the Bible, which includes examples of how to speak wisely and persuasively to not only adults, but to people of all ages. One way to utilize this message is to subject your conversations to the “James” test, particularly when emotions run high and tempers flare.

Another aspect of this is embodied in James 1:19: “Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak.” The application of this aphorism entails making the effort to listen to your children when they converse with you. Take time to ask the right questions about what is unclear and allow them to express their feelings, even if your instinct is that they may be misguided. Only by fully understanding your children’s thoughts can you be a positive force in their lives.