How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

Adele and Elaine's book, How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk provides a helpful guide to parent child communication. I've tried out several of the suggestions in the book and my kid has responded very well.  This has improved our relationship.

The specific praise section recommends giving details about what pleased you instead of the generic and egocentric, "I am so proud of you."  The authors combine discussions with parents who have used the technique with cartoon illustrations showing unhelpful and helpful dialogue between parent and child. Some sections allow the parent see the discussion from a child's perspective.

Example of a cartoon from the book

Please get the 2012 version of the book as it contains a next generation chapter from Adele's daughter Joanna. She reflects on growing up with her mom and how she's applied the techniques when she is raising her children.  Family Intel produced an eight page summary of How to Talk so Kids Will Listen ... .

Adele and Elaine talk about the origins of their book (2:39 min.)




Interview with Adele and Elaine (approx. 7.5 minutes)