When children return home from school or some activity, it is natural for parents to want to hear all about their experiences, so often we'll ask "What did you do today?" only to receive the let down answer, "Oh nothing." Our kids aren't trying to be distant, but it's just too much to remember everything that happened, and after a long day they don't feel like giving the run-down. It is more effective to ask a specific question that will help the child hone in on one meomorable event or feeling. Here are some great questions to ask your kids at the dinner table, when they return home, or at bedtime. I list them here, but the idea is not to ask them one after the other.
We have gotten into the habit of asking the first one with our three year olds before bed, because it sends them to sleep thinking about a positive experience they had. Often times if we forget to ask, they'll call us in after we've put them down and ask, "Mom, what was your favorite part of the day?" I'll often choose a pleasant moment we shared together, so that I can reinforce their good qualities and make them feel proud. Not to mention that I get the best hugs after that!
1) What was your favorite part of the day today?
2) What is one good thing that happened to you today?
3) What is one thing you were proud of today?
4) Who was really nice today?
5) What was one moment that you specifically remember?
6) What did your teacher say to you today?
7) Was there anything you did today that you'd change if you could?
8) Who were you a good friend to today?
9) What did you notice about nature/the sky/the weather today?
10) Is there anything you want to remember for tomorrow?
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