Ann-Marie

Do you ever wonder what to ask your children? Do you wish that your child would answer with more than a one-word response such as good, okay, yes, no and so forth?

Here are 13 questions that will get the conversation started whether it be over a meal, on a road trip or you have time together.

When asking the questions be prepared to answer them too. The purpose of the questions is about creating a family bond and generating conversation as opposed to interrogating your child. When you answer, provide a response based on how you want your child to respond to you. This means answering them truthfully and showing vulnerabilities as that will teach your child to do the same.

Also when your child answers listen intently and ask follow-up questions based on what you have heard to get further information. Active listening shows that you are listening and are interested in what they have to say.

Some ideas on how to go about asking the questions are:

• Cut out the strips below place them into a jar and take turns pulling them out at random and reading the questions over dinner (a great way for kids to practice reading also). Then go around the table to give everyone a go at answering.
• Read the question straight off the printout. Let your child also pick the question, this will give them a great sense of importance and pleasure.
• Pre-plan which questions you want to ask and during general conversations bring the question out.

13 Conversations Starters

1. What did you do well today?
2. What is one favourite thing you do by yourself?
3. What is something you really want to learn how to do?
4. What is one kind thing that you did today?
5. What’s your favourite family tradition?
6. What animal would you choose to be and why?
7. If you could create your own planet what would it look like?
8. When do I ask for help from someone outside of my family?
9. Who is someone you would really like to meet?
10. What is something that made you smile today?
11. What three words do you think describe you best?
12. What is one of your favourite family memory?
13. What’s a way for businesses to improve their customer service?

In addition, letting your child ask you questions will help them learn further about you. They will see you as a human just like them as opposed to a grown-up. Overall it will help create a positive home environment that will lead to a happier life.

Enjoy the interesting and fun conversations you will have as you learn further about yourself and your child.

Added bonus, sign up for our newsletter to receive your FREE 96 Conversational Starters to create engaging conversations with your child Valued at $17.

How did you go with the questions? Please leave a comment below.