Face-to-face conversation is the most human – and humanizing – thing we do. Fully present to one another, we learn to listen. It’s where we develop the capacity for empathy. It’s where we experience the joy of being heard, of being understood. And conversation advances self-reflection, the conversations with ourselves that are the cornerstone of early development and continue throughout life.
~Sherry Turkle, in Reclaiming Conversation: The Power of Talk in a Digital Age
Who’s reading the recommended summer parent book, Reclaiming Conversation: The Power of Talk in a Digital Age by Sherry Turkle? This timely book is an eye-opener if you aren’t already reading about this topic, but it’s fascinating and encouraging overall. You will enjoy it, learn from it, be challenged by it, and inspired by it!
How's your growth mindset? If you're up for it, we have a few mini-challenges for all of us to try this summer, to help reclaim the power of talk in our relationships. Here's the first one:
As simple as it sounds, make time this week (and regularly) for a meaningful face-to-face conversation with someone. Let's resist the urge to connect merely through texts and emails – put a coffee, lunch, or park date on your calendar with someone you care about. Let's make sure we are modeling this empathy-building pursuit for our kids, and giving them opportunities to have conversations too!
What are your thoughts on the book so far? Post a comment and let's talk about reclaiming conversation! Better yet, get together with a friend and talk about the book in person… but we'd love to hear your comments too!
If you’re looking for kid-friendly events this week, our local libraries have several options! Click here for the July Calendar of Events.
