Hello there, dear parents and caregivers! It’s Nana Gigi here, your warm-hearted guide from Granny Nanny, here to talk about one of the most powerful gifts you can give your child: good communication.
Now, we all talk to our children every day—“Hurry up, let’s go!” “No, don’t touch that!” “Eat your veggies!”—but communicating with children is a whole different thing. It’s not just about giving instructions; it’s about connection, respect, and understanding.
At Granny Nanny, we practice gentle, purposeful communication, rooted in the Montessori philosophy. Let’s explore what healthy communication looks like, and how it builds confident, respectful children who feel seen, heard, and deeply loved.
💬 Why Communication Matters in Early Childhood
Children are always listening and absorbing—even when they don’t seem like it. The way we speak to them becomes the voice they develop inside themselves. When we speak with kindness, patience, and clarity, they learn to do the same with others (and themselves!).
Healthy communication helps children:
-
Understand expectations clearly
-
Feel emotionally secure and respected
-
Develop strong language and listening skills
-
Express themselves confidently
-
Build meaningful relationships
And remember, children don’t just need to hear words—they need to feel them.
🌱 Montessori and the Art of Listening
Montessori encourages us to treat children with dignity and respect, even in our tone. That means slowing down, getting down to their level, and truly listening.
When we say, “I hear you’re upset because your block tower fell. That must be frustrating,” we show empathy and validation. We’re not rushing to fix things or brushing over their feelings—we’re connecting.
👂🏽 5 Warm & Practical Tips for Better Communication
Whether you’re raising a toddler, preschooler, or a big kid, these simple tips will help you foster better conversations and stronger connections.
1. Get on Their Level—Literally
Bend down, make eye contact, and use a calm, warm voice. It helps your child feel safe and understood. Eye-level conversations show that what they’re saying matters to you.
🧡 “I’m here, I’m listening.”
2. Use Simple, Clear Language
Young children need short, easy-to-understand sentences. Instead of saying, “You’re being disruptive,” try:
🧡 “Let’s use our quiet voice now.”
🧡 “We take turns when we play.”
Keep it clear, gentle, and respectful.
3. Give Them Time to Respond
It takes children a few seconds longer to process what you say. After you ask a question or give a direction, pause. Give them space to think and respond before jumping in.
🧡 “Do you want help putting on your shoes or do you want to try by yourself?”
4. Name the Feeling, Not Just the Behavior
Helping your child identify their emotions is a powerful life skill. It teaches them that all feelings are okay, and gives them tools to express themselves safely.
🧡 “You’re sad because playtime is over. I understand. It’s okay to feel that way.”
Over time, they’ll learn to say it for themselves.
5. Be a Model of the Behavior You Want
Children learn by watching us. Speak respectfully, even when correcting them. Instead of shouting, try calm firmness. Instead of “Stop whining!” try:
🧡 “Use your strong voice so I can understand you.”
🧡 “Let’s talk when we’re both calm.”
You’re not just solving the moment—you’re teaching for life.
🌈 What We Do at Granny Nanny
At Granny Nanny, communication is more than just a skill—it’s part of our loving culture. Our trained caregivers use affirming, respectful language that empowers children to express themselves, make choices, and resolve conflict peacefully.
We speak to children, not at them. We ask open-ended questions, encourage curiosity, and always listen with compassion. Whether it’s a one-year-old learning to say “more” or a preschooler navigating friendships, we guide them with warmth and wisdom.
💖 Final Thoughts from Nana Gigi
Sweetheart, remember this: the way you speak to your child becomes the way they speak to themselves. So fill your home with words of encouragement, love, curiosity, and patience.
Every “I believe in you,” every “Tell me how you feel,” every “You did it!” builds a child who is emotionally strong and deeply connected to you.
You don’t have to be perfect—just present.
And I’ll be right here cheering you on. 💕
Granny Nanny—Growing hearts, one loving word at a time.
With love,
Nana Gigi 🧓🏽🌼