Asking the right questions can make the different between conversation and silence at the family dinner table. Many parents fall into the habit of asking vague questions, the classic “how was school?” or “how was your day?” is almost guaranteed to get the same one-word answer- fine. Asking the right questions, however, can lead to some great family talks around the table.
What-if Questions
Children love to imagine, so its no wonder that they enjoy playing the what-if game. Simple questions like “what would you do with $100?” or “what would be your dream house?” can lead to interesting revelations about your children and ways to connect with them that you never imagined. It will also encourage them to think and create stories, great for building many critical skills early in life.
Favorites Questions
Ask your children regularly about their favorite color, food, season, and TV show. Chances are, their answers are constantly changing as they grow up. Many parents find that their four year old can have four favorite colors just during dessert. Asking favorites questions are fun for children because it shows that you’re interested in hearing about them and knowing things about them. It also makes them think about their tastes and preferences and come up with new answers for themselves too.
Questions about their Childhood
Asking a child about their earliest memory or to name their favorite things they remember from kindergarten can lead to great conversations. It also encourages children to ask their parents questions about what they were like in the years before they remember, children love hearing stories about themselves. Children also love to hear stories about their parents and grandparents childhoods. This provides a great way to
