As adults, we may sometimes forget that children are always listening and absorbing the information around them, even when we don't think they are paying attention.

It's important to remember that certain topics or conversations may not be appropriate for children to hear, as they may be confusing, frightening, or simply not age-appropriate. Children may also misunderstand or misinterpret what they hear, leading to unnecessary worry or anxiety. 

Adult conversations, especially those about sensitive topics such as finances, relationship problems, or health issues, can be stressful for children to hear. They may feel like they are burdened with adult responsibilities or worries that are beyond their control, which can be overwhelming for them.

This anxiety is increasingly evident in the school setting where atypical behaviours can often be traced back to these types of stressors being present.

Therefore, it's important for us as adults to be mindful of the conversations we have in front of our children. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid discussing sensitive topics in front of children, or use language that is appropriate for their age and understanding.
• Be aware of the volume of your voice and the tone of your conversation. Children can pick up on tension and stress even if they don't understand the details of the conversation.
• Use discretion when talking about other people, as children may repeat what they hear and unintentionally hurt someone's feelings.
• If you need to have a conversation that you don't want your children to hear, wait until they are asleep or out of earshot.

By being mindful of the conversations we have in front of children, we can help ensure that they feel safe, secure, and respected. It's important to remember that our words and actions have a powerful impact on our children, and by being mindful of this impact, we can help them grow and develop into healthy, confident, and well-adjusted individuals.