(Because the best conversations usually start with something unexpected)
Let’s be honest: getting your kid to open up can feel like trying to talk to a locked door.
You know there’s a world inside… you’re just trying to find the right key.
In another article (20 More Questions) we shared 20 questions that help build real connection and cut through the usual one-word replies.
Today, we’re giving you 20 more ways to spark meaningful conversations with your child – especially the angsty, awkward, or emotionally under-construction ones.
These aren’t about tricking your kid into talking.
They’re about creating moments that invite them to show you who they’re becoming.
🗣️ 20 More Questions to Swap in for “How Was School?”
1. If you had to design a role model, what traits would they have?
2. Who’s your favorite teacher right now—and what makes them your favorite?
3. What do you hope people admire about you when you’re older?
4. Do you think money can buy happiness?
5. What’s something you wish you knew more about?
6. What’s something you wish I knew more about?
7. What’s something you’re proud of yourself for—big or small?
8. What’s been a major turning point in your life so far?
9. If money didn’t exist, what would you want to be paid in?
10. Do grades help kids learn—or make it harder?
11. Who makes you feel the most loved (besides me)? How do they do it?
12. Who makes you feel the most heard (besides me)? How do they do it?
13. Who makes you feel the most understood (besides me)? How do they do it?
14. What’s something people don’t really get about you?
15. Is there anything you really want to learn how to do?
16. What do you look for in a good friend?
17. What do you think matters most in a relationship?
18. Do you ever try to figure out what your dreams mean?
19. If you had to write a book, what would it be about?
20. If I had to write a book, what do you think it should be about?
Why This Works
Most of these questions are unexpected. And that’s exactly the point.
They help your child slow down and consider what they actually think, feel, and believe.
And more importantly – they give your child a platform, a voice, and a reminder that their ideas matter.
They might not dive in right away. That’s okay.
Keep asking with curiosity, not pressure. Keep the door open.
You’re planting seeds for the kind of relationship that lasts beyond the school years
So, tell us:
👉 Which question are you going to ask first?
👉 What’s one you’d add to the list?
Let’s keep the conversation going.
If inspired, please share.
Related Articles:
Parenting Through the Fire: 5 Ways to Beat Burnout Without Burning Out Yourself
Releasing The Need For Approval
