10 Questions To Ask Your Kids Instead Of ‘How Was Your Day?’

Opening the lines of communication often starts with a question, but what are the questions instead of ‘how was your day?’ We’re all guilty of that cliche, often hurried, end of school day question, “how was your day?” It’s usually met with a “fine” or “good.” Rarely does it spark a meaningful conversation or encourage your child to open up.

I am learning that while early childhood and toddlerhood was physically demanding, having big kids is more mentally demanding. I am always worried that I’m saying the wrong thing and asking the wrong questions. While I know that isn’t the case, it is still hard to navigate. Ultimately, I want my kids to know that I am here for them without judgment; I want communication to be the foundation of our family dynamic. But how the heck do we accomplish that?!

How To Get Your Kid To Open Up With Questions Other Than ‘How Was Your Day?”

It is important to remember that, just like adults, kids sometimes need time to decompress after a long day. If your child isn’t as responsive after one question, try again later. In our podcast episode with Janet Allison, she talks about companionable silence––sometimes it’s all that’s needed to reconnect. Follow their lead, then your child may be ready to chat.

10 Questions For Kids To Spark Conversation

Below I’ve compiled a list of my top ten questions to spark communication and deter one word answers. Pin the graphic at the bottom for later and easy access!

1. Tell me about something that made you smile today.
2. What are you excited about right now?
3. Can you tell me an example of kindness you saw/showed?
4. What was the funniest thing you saw/heard today?
5. What is something that challenged you?
6. What was the mountain (high point)?
7. What was the valley (low point)?
8. What new fact did you learn today?
9. What did you eat at lunch? Who did you sit by?
10. What was your first thought when you woke up today?

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