A Message From Our Principal

Dr. Joyce Volpini, SND

Dear Parents,

Good communication between parent and child is essential in building a relationship based on trust and shared values. A wise parent is a good listener who encourages children to share their ideas and their experiences, thus sending an emphatic message: “You are important to me. I care about you.”

Being a good listener requires more than just physical presence. A parent who makes an effort to learn as much as possible about the school, the teachers, and other students in the school will be able to show real interest in school activities. An interested listener maintains eye contact and makes pertinent comments. Sometimes there are distractions which make it impossible for you to give full attention. Children will accept an honest explanation that now is not a good time for discussion if they have learned to trust in the fact that they will be heard later.

Be aware that your comments will keep the conversation going or stop completely. It’s important not to be judgmental. Sometimes it’s best just to mirror your child’s feelings rather than jump in with advice. “It upset you to hear Joe talk that way,” or “That really made you angry.” Whenever possible, let your child make a decision on the best way to solve a problem. Your goal is to build independence, to let children think for themselves. Ask questions that will help them come up with their own solutions.

When you are a willing and interested listener, but still have an uncommunicative child, perhaps you need to think about the way you phrase your questions. “How was school?” may elicit only a one-word answer. “Tell me about your day.” or “What was the best (or worst) thing that happened today?” produces more information. You can be an effective sounding board giving your young person a chance to express ideas and, at the same time, be an example of one who lives by Christian values.

God Bless,

Sr. Joyce

This letter was last updated on: October 2007