I have found that the best way to communicate with a child is to talk with him or her just like I would an adult. Kids respond better to this than using "baby talk."
This even works with preschoolers. This past weekend, I was brought a 4 year old who "didn't want to stay in class." I sat down with him and asked him point blank, "Are you a big kid?"
He quickly answered "yes." I then said, "You're not a baby. You're a big kid. Why don't you act your age and go into your class with the other big kids."
It clicked and he went into the room. If I had babied him, I think the opposite would have happened.
Of course, I am not talking about using big words or ever being harsh or unkind. Our words should always be spoken with love and care.
The bottom line is this: Treat kids with honor and respect. Reflect this in your tone of voice and words and they will respond.
