How can I get my kids to open up and talk about their day?
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Dr. Michele Borba answered:Here are a few secrets to help your kids open up and talk about their day:
*Wait! The time kids are most stressed is the moment they walk in the door. So don’t push the “how was your day?” inquiry. In fact, teens say they hate that question. “It’s predictable. She’s going to ask, ‘How was your day?’ Instead, a simple, “Looks like you could use a snack and a minute to unwind. Glad your home” works best.
*Use your kid’s time zone. Identify the time your kid is most receptive to chatting. With one of my sons I discovered it was around five o’clock in the afternoon by the refrigerator, and that’s where I’d plant myself.
*Don’t ask questions that kids can answer with “yes,” “no,” or “fine.” If you ask “what did you do after lunch?” is more likely to get a response other than yes or no. To help you find a conversation topic about what’s going on at school, check the school website or the school/teacher newsletter.
*Talk while doing. Boys in particular are more likely to open up when they are doing something. So trying talking while he’s stirring up a smoothie, shooting hoops or playing Legos.
*Start a family ritual to connect. It used to be family dinners, but busy schedules are making that a rarity. Still regular meals can help.
Find out more about this book: The Big Book of Parenting Solutions: 101 Answers to Your Everyday Challenge...
Here are a few secrets to help your kids open up and talk about their day: *Wait! The time kids are most stressed is the moment they walk in the door. So don’t push the “how was your day?” inquiry. In fact, teens say they hate... More -
Dr. D. Mark Valentine of Intermountain Healthcare answered:Asking questions that can be answered yes/no usually does not work to get kids to open up. Try asking, "Tell me three things about your day." or "What did you do at school before lunch?" or "Can you tell me one good thing and one bad thing about yesterday?" Kids like adults find that they like talking more to some people than to others. Often parents are no high on the list of who they like to talk to. To gain trust, establish family traditions like having dinner together and sharing stories of the day. Try doing things your kids enjoy even if you would prefer to do other things. Have TV free hours or music free hours to encourage more communication. Finding out more about your kids from their friends or teachers or coaches can help you open the door to more understanding and communication.Asking questions that can be answered yes/no usually does not work to get kids to open up. Try asking, "Tell me three things about your day." or "What did you do at school before lunch?" or "Can you tell me one good thing and one bad thing about... More -
Dr. Charles Sophy answered:The key to getting your kids to open up and talk about their day is your established trusting relationship with them.
Choosing a down time with your kids to relax and talk about their day can be non-imposing or non-intimidating. Kids will open up when they feel safe to talk to you, without uninvited advice or judgment call.
Establishing a routine family time at the end of each day for “Talk of the Day” gathering can facilitate exchanges of thoughts and feelings.
The key to getting your kids to open up and talk about their day is your established trusting relationship with them. Choosing a down time with your kids to relax and talk about their day can be non-imposing or non-intimidating. Kids will open up... More
