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Tip Tuesday
'What' and 'how' questions get children talking

Sometimes, having a conversation with your children is like playing a game of 20 Questions.

You ask your child as she walks in the door, "Did you have a good day in school?"  “Yes,” she answers, and says no more. There is a way to ask questions that will encourage your child to tell you more.  To encourage your children to tell you more, make sure your questions can't be answered with a simple yes or no. Instead, start with words like "what " or "how" or "tell me." For example: "What are you doing in science class?" "How did you decide what to pick for your speech topic?"  "Tell me about your social studies project."

Here's another tip. Your children may not want to discuss school the moment they get home. They may, however, be more talkative after they have had a chance to unwind.

Source: The Parent Institute