Be a good listener. Look at the person who is talking. Don’t do something else that requires your attention such as reading or writing. Make appropriate comments so the person knows you are paying attention. Don’t listen only for the purpose of stating your own opinion as soon as the person finishes speaking.

Accept other members of the family as they are. Do not judge, condemn, or criticize each other. Do not say cruel or hurtful things.

Confide in parents and other family members. If, at appropriate times, you share things that are close to you with others, others can more easily do the same with you. Sharing feelings creates closeness and good communication.

Care about the interests of other family members. Let your brothers and sisters know that you care about their activities such as sports and hobbies. Show interest in what they are doing, attend activities, and do other things to support them.

Be affectionate. Give a hug or kiss to your mother or father, a pat on the back or a squeeze to a brother or sister. Tell family members that you love them.

Give sincere compliments and approval. Tell others what a good job they did or how much you appreciated something they did for you. Report good acts of one family member to the rest of the family, and write notes of approval and encouragement.

Keep confidences shared with you. When a member of your family tells you something that is personal, respect that confidence and don’t discuss it with anyone else.

Help to create a good environment for communication. Help to remove barriers of noise and confusion. Take time to have personal conversations with family members. Try to solve problems in family home evenings, family councils, or private interviews with parents.