How do you speak so that children will listen? Start by speaking slowly.
Audiology professor Ray Hull of Wichita State University points out that adults often speak too quickly for children. Children process speech with a fair degree of understanding up to 120 words per minute. That processing speed begins to improve gradually around fourth grade. Many adults, however, regularly speak at a rate of 160 to 170 words per minute.
Hull suggests that this one of the reasons Fred Rogers, of Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood was so appealing to young listeners is that he practiced reading at 124 words per minute. In other words, he spoke at a rate they could understand. Hull’s conclusion for parents and teacher is simple:
“Anybody who works with children will save a great deal of time if they will simply speak at a rate that children can comprehend.” (The Wichita Eagle)
It may seem counter-intuitive, but in speaking with your children slowing down will save you time - and will prevent unnecessary frustration.
