Listen more than you talk

Remember when your children spoke their first
words? Memorable, wasn't it? Now ask yourself
how much you remember of what your children
said today. Not every word that comes out of
your children's mouth is worth recording for
posterity, of course. But you'll never know
unless you listen.

As much as is possible, look your children in
the eye when they speak. Don't cut them off
or finish their sentences. Rely more on asking
questions then giving lectures, to teach as well
as to discipline. Listen with your eyes and heart,
not just your ears. Remember, your children learn
to listen through your example.