The Secret Superpower Every Parent Needs: The Art of Listening

May 5, 2025

Megan Thorp, a Certified Connected Families Parent Coach and therapist, emphasizes how active listening is the cornerstone of healthy parent-child relationships. She explores how listening nurtures emotional intelligence and fosters a sense of value in children. By sharing personal stories, Megan highlights the importance of being present and understanding underlying beliefs. Listeners gain practical tips for improving their listening skills, underscoring that it’s never too late to enhance this vital ability in parenting.

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ANECDOTE

Megan's Parenting Struggles

Megan Thorp shares her experience of parenting with fast, large, and loud behavior rooted in fear of failure.
She controlled her kids to achieve respect and happiness, which was ultimately unattainable and caused struggles.

INSIGHT

Listening Shows You Care

Listening to kids shows them that we see and understand their inner struggles.
Empathizing with their challenges together improves the quality of the parent-child relationship.

ADVICE

Show Full Attention

Put away phones and maintain eye contact to show your child you are fully present.
These nonverbal cues communicate to children that they are valued and heard.

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In this episode, Megan Thorp, MA and Certified Connected Families Parent Coach, joins us to explore why listening is the jet fuel in our relationships with our kids. We examine how effective listening can bridge the disconnect between us and our kids and foster emotional intelligence. We also talk about the importance of being present, understanding underlying beliefs, and the spiritual aspect of listening as a reflection of God’s character. And finally, we share practical tips for improving your listening skills and the hope that it’s never too late to grow in this essential skill.

Key Takeaways:

Listening communicates to kids that they are valued, liked, and that you care about what’s happening inside them
Active listening builds relational influence that becomes crucial during challenging moments
Active listening grows your child’s confidence by showing them they are “called and capable”
God models perfect listening for us – He is fully present, understands our circumstances, and feels what we feel.

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Guest Bio:

As a parent coach, Megan’s desire is to come alongside parents and help them gain confidence and equip them to lead their families. She will help you create an environment in your home where everyone feels valued and connected, and skills for you to build a relationship with your kids that will last long after they leave your home. She strongly believes that you are the expert on your child, and I would love to walk with you as you bring more peace and joy into your home.

Megan has a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Bethel University and is a Certified Parent Coach and Parent Coach Trainer through Connected Families. She loves to spend time with her husband and 3 kids. Connect with Megan at: megan@connectedfamilies.org or here.

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