Several days ago a young mother came to me and asked why her son doesn't talk to her that much? She proceeded to tell me that her 1st grade boy came home from school one day and shared a story with the mom. The young boy mentioned how a 5th grade girl was talking to him at school. Immediately the young mother scolded the young boy and strictly prohibited him from talking to girls, especially older ones. Although I agree with the mother regarding her young child talking to older students, what she failed to do was take time to listen to the whole story. Children really just want someone to listen to them, to validate their ideas and thoughts. Once this is accomplished, parents should then guide and instruct their child on proper conduct around others.
Take time to listen.