Most toddlers can hear just fine, but you wouldn't know it from the way they act! It's tough to get their attention, but it's important that they understand when it's time to listen to mommy or daddy.

Here are a few tips to get your toddler to pay attention and listen up!

BING! - Find a word or sound that means 'Listen Up!' Try to use it every time you want your child to listen to you. Soon they will learn to associate it with paying attention to mommy or daddy. Watch out, though! Your child will definitely use the word or phrase on you. Make sure you're ready to set a good listening example when you hear 'BING!'

Eye contact - When you need your child to listen, make eye contact. Get on their level, hold their chin and use your catch phrase. Soon they will automatically look at you when you use your catch phrase.

Yes, Yes, Yes - not No, No, No. A parent's job is to set boundaries and keep their kids safe, and that means a lot of No's. To make listening more fun, something they want to do, make sure what they hear is positive. Try, 'Bing! Thank you for putting away your toys! Good boy!' or 'Bing! Good girl! You ate all your lunch!'

Get rid of distractions - Turn the TV off, turn the stereo off, and step away from the toys. This works great in your own home, but is harder when you're out and about. Find a quiet spot and get your child to physically step away from distractions.

Try quieter, not louder - If your child is not listening, the first instinct is to raise your voice. Barring distractions, if you talk more quietly, a toddler's natural curiosity may make them wonder what you're saying and come to investigate. This also sets a good example: a quiet parent will have a quieter child.

Try some yoga! - Try this simple breathing exercise to get your child's attention and help them focus. Lift their hands over their head and take a deep breath, then lower them and exhale. Even very small children will master this very quickly, and enjoy it! The handholding gets their attention and the breathing calms them down, getting them ready to listen. Once you have eye contact, use your signal sound and tell them what you want to tell them.

Be patient - Be patient with both your child and yourself. All parents know this is the hardest thing to do, but the most important.

Listening is so important, but is also one of the most frustrating things to teach toddlers. Practice with the day-to-day stuff so that in an emergency, your child will have the skills to pay attention when it really counts.