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Our kids are growing up in a digital world, surrounded by screens: from TVs and computers to tablets, games consoles and smartphones.
While digital technology is a useful tool to support learning, children also need lots of face-to-face interaction to develop their speaking and listening skills. And, by showing them you think that what they have to say is worth listening to, you’ll encourage them to open up when they’re feeling proud or when they’re worried about something.
Here are ten conversation starters to get your family chatting:
- If you were an animal what would you be? Why?
- If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? How would you use it to help others?
- Imagine an alien came to your school. What would you tell them about life on Planet Earth?
- What made you proud/happy today?
- What’s your most unusual talent? Can you show us?
- If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? What would you do there?
- Do you think it’s more fun to be a grown up or a child? Why?
- If our pet could talk to us, what do you think it would say?
- What three things would you take to a desert island if you were going to be stuck there for a while?
- Tell us your favourite joke
Find lots more ideas at The Family Dinner Project.
If you’re concerned that your child is ‘bottling up’ their feelings, try one of these encouraging phrases:
- Is there anything you want to talk to me about?
- I love you, and nothing will change that
- We can get through this together
- You can talk to me, or someone else if you need to
- I’m here for you whenever you’re ready to talk
- I want to try and help you