3 Ways to Get Children to Listen & Stress Less As a Parent
Children Pick Up on Your Stress
No matter how well you manage your career and home life, your child picks up on your stress.
During my years as a Montessori teacher, I saw this clearly at the beginning of each school year. When mothers confidently said goodbye, their children adjusted more quickly. But when a mother hesitated, looked anxious, or lingered too long, her child became upset, clingy, or distressed.
Children take emotional cues from their parents. If you feel stressed, they feel it too.
The good news? Small shifts in communication and structure can create more cooperation and calm at home.
1. Speak So Your Child Listens
Many parents feel frustrated when their child doesn’t listen, leading to raised voices and repeated instructions. But children listen best when they feel connected and safe.
Tips to Encourage Listening:
- Get to Their Eye Level
Instead of calling from across the room, kneel down, make eye contact, and use a steady, calm tone.
Dr. Becky Kennedy, author of Good Inside, emphasizes that children respond better when they feel emotionally regulated.
2. Create Predictable Routines
Just like the first weeks of school were easier when moms kept drop-offs short and consistent, home life runs more smoothly when children know what to expect.
Children thrive on predictability and timing.
Build Simple, Effective Routines:
- A Mealtime Rhythm
Sharing even one regular meal—like breakfast or dinner—helps children feel connected and grounded.
- Use a Sand Timer
Children understand time concretely, so I often use a sand timer to support smoother transitions.
3. Create Security with a Simple Daily Check-In
A five-minute emotional check-in can be one of the most powerful tools for building trust and emotional regulation.
At dinner or bedtime, ask simple questions like:
- “What was your favorite part of today?”
- “What’s one thing you’re excited about for tomorrow?”
These consistent, focused conversations give your child the chance to feel heard, supported, and emotionally secure—even on busy days.
Building a Calmer, Happier Home
By combining clear communication, predictable routines, and daily emotional connection, you can create a home environment where your child feels safe, secure, and cooperative.
Small changes practiced consistently will reduce stress for both you and your child—and make your family life smoother and more joyful.
Want to Go Deeper?
If this resonates, here are two excellent books that explore these strategies further:
Click here to get Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy.
Click here for Positive Discipline by Dr. Jane Nelsen.
Click here to get the recommended 5-minute sand timer.
Ready to Create a Calmer Home?
If you're ready to bring more calm, cooperation, and emotional connection into your home, I’m here to support you.
Book a complimentary Discovery Call to discover how we can collaborate to alleviate stress, foster your child's development, and cultivate a thriving home environment.
Written by: Mara Mazzarotto, Certified Health Coach
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical or psychological advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
