Submitted by Sarah, Minneapolis  MN

How can we improve the communication in our family?

Answered by Jacque Grillo , Director, Lone Mountain Children's Center

One suggestion for developing an open and direct communication style in the context of family life is the family meeting. All that is required to implement the family meeting is that the time be set aside and certain ground rules be established from those in leadership positions (that's you, the parents!). In order to be most effective family meetings need to happen regularly, (not just when there are problems), and everyone must have the opportunity to be heard. Sometimes solutions and problem-solving will be a natural result of such a meeting, and sometimes just respectfully listening to each person's point of view can in and of itself effect positive change.