PsychogeographyA Big Word for a Simple Concept!Psychogeography is a simple concept that can have one of the biggest effects on how you communicate and how your children respond to what you say! Try this simple exercise with a partner:Choose a neutral phrase: “apples, pears, bananas” so attention is on how the words feel, rather than what they mean.Go through each of the following positions, pausing to take a deep belly breath between each one. Then trade positions, so each of you can have the experience. P = parent, who will be speaking; P faces C about 1 foot apart. Say: “Apples, pears, bananas.” Move to next position... P faces C standing about 10 feet apart (across a room). C turns away from P (still 10 feet apart). P stands shoulder to shoulder next to C (facing the same direction). C squats down (to about 3 feet) while facing P. P squats down while facing C.
What Did You Notice?A mom commented that when hearing someone speak to her from behind her, she felt jolted, assaulted.A dad said that when his son was little and didn’t talk much, he often got down to his level. As his son began to talk more, he realized that he didn’t do that as often. After the exercise, he realized that he still needed to make sure he is at the same level if he wants his son to understand what he's saying. ...Consider...Think about how many times you...1. Give directions from another room. 2. Make requests when your child isn't looking at or isn't close to you. 3. Talk when your back is turned.
...Before You Speak...Take an extra moment to consider your psychogeography...and then move yourself into a more effective physical relationship with your child...Move next to her...walk upstairs...touch a hand or shoulder...or stand close. Return to Eye Contact
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