THE POWER OF SAYING "THANK YOU FOR TELLING ME”

The simple phrase that can build long-lasting trust and strengthen your child's confidence in opening up.

- 

Parenting is full of moments when our children come to us - sometimes with excitement, sometimes with fear and sometimes with heavy emotions they're not quite sure how to express. One of the most impactful responses we can offer in these moments is a simple, heartfelt, “Thank you for telling me.”

At first glance, it might seem like a small phrase. But in reality, these four words create a powerful message: I'm here. I'm listening. What you say matters. Whether your child is sharing a mistake, a worry, a proud achievement or a tricky situation, responding with gratitude helps build trust, emotional safety and open communication - all things that form the bedrock of a strong parent-child relationship.

BUILDING TRUST

When you respond to your child's honesty with “Thank you for telling me,” you show them that it's okay to speak the truth. It tells them that you won't rush to judge, punish or dismiss what they have to say. Instead, you're recognising their courage in bringing something to you - especially when it's hard.

Imagine your child nervously admitting they broke a rule, like staying up past bedtime or forgetting an important homework assignment. It can be tempting to jump straight into frustration. However, pressing pause to first say, “Thank you for telling me,” honours the honesty before addressing the behaviour.

Over time, this simple habit strengthens their trust in you. They learn that even when things go wrong, they can come to you without fear - a gift that becomes even more important as they navigate adolescence and adulthood.

VALIDATING COURAGE