· By S. S. Coulter
5 Conversation Starters for You and Your Family
Sometimes it’s hard to get more than one or two word answers to a question from your kids. Here are 5 great ways to get an involved and fun conversation going:
- Tell me something good… I love this one. Start off by singing, “Tell me something good…” (Remember the song? ) and prompt your kids to answer. Sometimes you’ll have to say a couple things first to get them warmed up. This is a great one to do on a regular basis.
- Sit in silence. Yep. It sounds silly, but it works. Instead of asking your child question after question (and getting “yes,” “no,” “nothing,” “I don’t know” answers in return), just sit there quietly for a bit. Chances are they’ll start sharing stories on their own.
- Today I spied… This is just like I Spy, but in the past! Start by telling your kids you are thinking of something you saw during your day, and give them some clues to get started. After they guess yours, ask them to think of something they spied that day. Have fun trying to guess and learn more about their day!
- The best part & what I’d change. You can do this at dinner, when the kids get home from school, in the car, before bed, etc. Have each person say what the best part of his or her day was, and one thing he or she would change for tomorrow. Be sure to share yours as well.
- Play categories. Choose a category and have everyone give an answer, one by one. Here are some category ideas: favorite color, favorite season, best show to watch, greatest sport, yummiest meal.
Getting to know each other and learning about each other’s day can be an awesome part of every day in your family. Even if it’s a couple minutes before bed or five minutes in the car – find the time to talk to each other.
Some additional benefits of these conversations...
The Top Ten Benefits of Spending Time With Family by Highland Springs
Why Is Communicating With Your Child Important? by Slumberkins