“Why are you doing that? How does this work? What is that for?” Kids are known for asking questions. And usually, the younger they are, the more questions they have. Why? Because kids learn through questioning. But they aren’t the only ones who should be using questions to learn. A wise parent regularly will leverage the power of questions to see deeper into his kids’ hearts and understand them better.
Here are some great questions you might ask as you sit around the dinner table, or even in the vehicle while you’re on the go. The goal is to use them as springboards for discussion by connecting each other’s hearts through real conversation. We’ve used them in our family, and they are as fun as you make them. So, go ahead, try one of them each day this week, or maybe come up with some of your own. You might be surprised by what you learn.
1. “What is your favorite day of the week and why?”
2. “If you had to write a list of things you love about our family, what would be at the very top?”
3. “How many times a day would you like me to tell you I love you?” (or hug you, compliment you, etc.)
4. “If you could have one superpower, what would it be, and why?” (and what would you choose to use it for?)
5. “If you were given a $100 bill right now, what would you do with it?”
6. “Imagine if you didn’t have to sleep at night. What would you do with all your extra time?”
7. “If you could have the best friend in the world, what qualities would he or she have?” (Follow up with “Are you that kind of friend yourself?”)
Challenge: Take a couple of minutes and write down a few of your own fun and engaging questions to ask your kids.
Sound off: How can you use questions to get to know your kids better?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What are some questions you want to ask me?”