I know that many of us were taught that with little children (babies and preschoolers) we should get down “on their level” to interact with them. But, there is no reason this fine technique should go away as our children hit elementary age. I think that any time we can put ourselves in a more accessible physical position, it can open up the lines of connection and communication with our child.
As example, I have found that when my teens are having a hard time, and they obviously need to talk to someone but are not warming to talking to me–if I go into their rooms (knocking and invited, of course) and take my seat down on the floor (sure, it might be amidst piles of papers and dirty clothes), they tend to open up and talk to me. There is just something about my being seated on the floor, leaning back against a wall of a pile of pillows that makes me more accessible. Looking up instead of standing over them sends a physical message that they are “in charge” of the conversation and that I am not a threat. By putting myself in what subconsciously seems to be a “submissive” position, I am sending a message that I am open, available, and ready to meet them on equal terms. It really does make a difference!
So, even if your kids are pass the point of playing, or at least they no longer play marvelous games spread out all over the floor where you can get down and get side-by-side with them, you can still utilize the “floor technique” to foster communication and connection. Think of some of the most intimate and open conversations you’ve had with friends and people over the years–chances are many of them happened while you were lounging on cushions or on the floor–or at least everyone was on the same physical level.
Also: Child-Sized Vs. Full-Sized, Which is Better?
When a Child’s Questions Get Hard