How do I get my kid to listen?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to get your kid ready for school, but they ignore you every time you ask them to put on their shoes.

Repeating yourself is tiring.

Causes & evidence

Clear, calm directions help. See toddler tantrums.

What to do

1. Get down to their level.
2. Give one direction at a time.
3. Praise when they listen.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: yelling instructions from another room, or giving too many directions at once. Get close, get down to their eye level, and use their name. Give one clear, short instruction. Ask them to repeat it back. Offer choices when possible. Use a 'when-then' approach: 'When your shoes are on, then we can go outside.' Praise them when they listen. Follow through calmly with consequences if needed. Build routines with picture charts for younger kids so they know what comes next. Notice if your child might have trouble hearing or focusing; if listening problems are constant, mention it to the pediatrician. Connection helps too: a few minutes of one-on-one play each day often makes kids more willing to cooperate.

Speed Man tip: Follow through consistently.

Wrap-up: Level. One at a time. Praise.