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The New and Improved Silent Treatment
5 Ways to Connect With Your Children
By Vickie Falcone
"Excuse me. Excuse me!" Have you ever witnessed a child who has learned the polite words to say, but not the polite tone to use when interrupting? My children learned a lovely skill for getting their preschool teacher's attention without interrupting or shouting, "Excuse me!" The teacher asked the children to place a hand on her shoulder (quietly and gently, no tapping or poking) if they needed her while she was working with another student. In return, she agreed to acknowledge them by placing her hand on theirs (that way they feel "heard"). She would then turn to talk with them at the earliest break in her conversation with the other student. We adopted the practice at our home for both parents and children and it continues today.
Another way I have taught my children to peacefully get their needs met if I am on the phone is by writing a note to me. (Part of my commitment to "Parenting With Soul" is that I'm rarely on the phone when my children are home. If you spend a large amount of time on the phone instead of connecting with your children, this practice will lose its effectiveness.) My children heartily adopted my value of silent interruptions.
