How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk: Book Review

Introduction

Ever wonder how to talk to kids so they actually listen? Or how to get them to open up and tell you what’s on their minds? The book How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish is here to help! This popular parenting guide offers simple yet effective ways to improve communication with children, making life easier for parents and kids alike.

Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish are both well-known parenting experts who have dedicated their careers to understanding how parents can better connect with their children. They’ve written several books together, sharing techniques that make family life smoother and happier. Their advice comes from years of studying and working with families, and they use their own experiences as parents to guide others.

This book isn’t a complicated manual. It’s written in simple language with easy-to-understand examples, making it perfect for busy parents who need practical advice. Let’s dive into what makes this book so special and why so many parents recommend it.

Understanding Kids’ Emotions

One of the main ideas in the book is understanding kids’ feelings. Faber and Mazlish explain that children need to feel heard and understood, just like adults do. When a child is upset, instead of quickly correcting them or telling them they’re wrong, the authors suggest acknowledging their feelings.

For example, if a child says, “I hate homework!” instead of responding, “No, you don’t. Homework is important,” you might say, “I know homework can be really tough sometimes.” This approach makes the child feel heard and understood, which often helps them calm down.

Teaching Kids Responsibility

Another key point in the book is teaching kids to be responsible. Faber and Mazlish believe that giving kids choices and encouraging them to make decisions helps them learn responsibility. Instead of constantly telling kids what to do, they suggest giving options and letting children feel in control.

For example, if a child doesn’t want to brush their teeth, instead of forcing them, you might say, “Do you want to brush your teeth now or in five minutes?” This way, they still have to brush their teeth, but they get to choose when, making them more willing to follow through.

Solving Problems Together

Faber and Mazlish also talk about the importance of working with kids to solve problems. Instead of punishing a child for breaking a rule, they suggest sitting down together and finding a solution that everyone agrees on.

If a child keeps leaving their toys all over the floor, instead of scolding them, you could say, “It seems like we have a problem with toys being left out. What can we do to make sure they get put away?” This way, the child feels involved in solving the problem, which makes them more likely to follow the rules.

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Positive Reviews from Amazon

Many readers on Amazon love this book for its practical advice and easytoread style. One reviewer shared how this book changed the way they speak to their child, helping them become more patient and understanding. They felt that the techniques really helped their child feel more comfortable and open at home.

Another parent wrote that they found the book incredibly helpful for dealing with tantrums. Before, they felt frustrated and unsure of how to respond, but after reading this book, they learned new ways to handle tough moments. The parent appreciated that the book doesn’t make them feel judged or overwhelmed, and it offers realistic advice they could use every day.

Negative Reviews from Amazon

Not everyone found the book perfect, though. Some reviewers mentioned that the examples felt a bit too basic or repetitive. One reader said they wished the book covered more age specific advice, as they felt the tips worked better for younger children than older ones.

Another reviewer felt that while the book was helpful, some of the advice felt unrealistic for parents who are dealing with multiple kids or have limited time. They wanted more advanced techniques for handling more complex situations.

Why This Book Is Worth a Read

If you’re a parent, teacher, or anyone who interacts with kids, this book can be a game-changer. It doesn’t promise miracles but offers simple tools that make communication smoother. The book also provides a deeper understanding of children’s feelings and behavior, which can make a big difference in how kids respond.

One of the best parts is that this book is easy to pick up and put into practice right away. You don’t need to be a parenting expert to use these tips—they’re accessible and can be adapted to different family situations. Plus, the friendly tone of Faber and Mazlish makes the book enjoyable to read, even if you’re new to the topic.

Want to hear all these tips on the go? You can get this audiobook FREE on Amazon and listen to it while doing daily chores or driving. It’s a great way to absorb the advice without taking time out of your busy day!

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Final Thoughts

How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk is a book that can help transform your relationship with children. It’s not just about getting kids to do what you say; it’s about building a strong bond of trust and respect.

Faber and Mazlish give you the tools to listen, understand, and guide children, making life smoother and happier for everyone involved.

Whether you’re struggling with daily challenges or simply looking to improve communication, this book has something valuable for every parent. It’s a friendly guide that reminds us all that a little patience and understanding can go a long way in building strong, positive relationships with kids.

F.A.Q.s | How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

1. Who are Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish?

Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish are parenting experts and authors known for their practical, friendly advice on communicating with children. They’ve written several bestselling books on parenting and have helped countless families with their communication methods.

2. What age group is this book suitable for?

The book is designed for parents of children ages 212. However, many of the techniques can be adapted for teenagers as well, as the communication skills apply to different stages of childhood.

3. Is this book helpful for teachers?

Yes! Many teachers find the strategies useful in creating a positive classroom environment. The book offers tips that help teachers handle classroom conflicts, listen to students, and encourage respectful behavior.

4. Can I get this book as an audiobook?

Absolutely! How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk is available as an audiobook on Amazon. You can even listen to it for FREE if you’re a new subscriber to Amazon’s Audible service.

5. Does the book provide solutions for tantrums and difficult behavior?

Yes, the book offers several strategies for managing difficult behavior like tantrums. It emphasizes understanding the child’s feelings and responding in a way that helps both the child and the parent feel calm and heard.

By the end of this book, many readers find they have a stronger, happier relationship with their children. Whether you're dealing with everyday challenges or simply want to improve your communication, How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk is a helpful, friendly guide worth reading.

Click Here to get AUDIOBOOK for FREE on Amazon Audible