728x90
my iParenting
From Our Sponsors
e-newsletters
Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters

new terms of use
new privacy policy
award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Home › Articles › Family › Telephone Time

Telephone Time

Tips for an Uninterrupted Phone Conversation

By C.J. Johnson

Pages:  1  2  3  

When you need to make important calls, Wallace suggests keeping calls brief and setting up the child with a special project. She advises rolling out a large piece of paper (the same type teachers use at school). Ask the child to create a picture on it while the telephone conversation takes place. Markers or special crayons that are only used during phone calls could be used to make it an extra fun time for the child. The little one could also make a collage with pieces of paper and glue.

Wallace also suggests putting in a favorite video. "Parents are afraid to use videos to entertain their children, but there are times when it helps everyone," says Wallace. She reminds parents that setting a child in front of a wholesome program during a brief telephone call will make the situation more pleasant for everyone.

What Works for Other Parents
Tracie and Dean Cloward are parents of six children and have learned a lot about patience and teaching kids to respect boundaries. Adding to the Clowards' clout as parents is Dean's role as a school psychologist. He explains that children love attention and often seek it when parents are not giving it. Talking on the telephone is a good example of such a time.

"We can give attention while we are on the phone by simply providing touch," he says. "We need to give it before they ask for it. Tell your children that you are getting on the phone and then remain near them. Touch shoulders, hands or hair and just sit near them and wink and smile."

Tracie Cloward also has positive solutions for mothers who want uninterrupted telephone time:

  • Make phone calls during snack time. Feeding children is an easy way to keep them quiet.
  • Make planned phone calls during naptime or after bedtime.
  • Keep a collection of puzzles, markers, clay and other playthings that can easily be taken out and used at the table. "Bringing those toys out while I am on the phone keeps kids busy and I know where they are," she says.

Pages:  1  2  3  


Want to see more?