Communicating for Closeness

Communication is Key

Communication is at the center of all relationships. Closeness is communicated in many ways, and people communicate love differently. Here are five ways to communicate to your children that will provide opportunities for increased closeness in family life.


1. Greet Your Children
Greetings are the oil that keep relationships cordial. Hugging your children as part of a greeting or welcoming them to breakfast in the morning makes an important statement about the value of your relationship.

2. Connect With Your Children
Exchanging information about our lives helps people know what’s going on and contributes to a sense of connectedness. As you go through your day, think of a couple of interesting things you could share with your child.

3. Value Your Child’s Opinion
Sharing opinions and judgments can be scary because they feel like they’ll have to back them up or face an argument. Look for ways to affirm your children. “That makes sense” can be an encouraging statement even if you disagree. “Thank you for sharing your opinion with me,” can be a statement that encourages openness.

4. Look Behind The Words
Communicating emotions takes us deeper in any relationship. Facts and opinions often have emotions hidden behind them. “I bet that hurt” or “I can tell you’re excited about that,” acknowledges the feelings behind your child’s words.

5. Connect Spiritually
Praying together, sharing what God is teaching you, enjoying worship together, and having a sense of spiritual fellowship are all ways to enjoy the deepest level of communication. As you strengthen your spiritual lives together, you’ll see more and more opportunities to discuss heart issues.