Asking your child how their school day was can be overwhelming
Mom psychologist says that it may be better to ask more specific questions...
It is almost a ritual to ask our kids how their day was as we pick them up or when we first see them at the end of the day.
Very rarely would you think that isn't the best thing to ask them, but a mom psychologist says that this could be overwhelming for your child.
Especially after they have had a long day. She advises that we stay away from broad questioning and move into asking more specific questions.
Read more: Things that children need to hear more often
Some of her suggestions include:
- Who did you play with today?
- Who did you sit with at lunch?
- Tell me about the time you felt happiest today?
- Who did you help today?
- What challenged you today? What felt hard?
- What did you have the most fun learning about today?
- When did you feel most proud of yourself today?
- Tell me about a high and low part of your day?
These suggestions don't mean that you should rattle your kids with question after question, though.
We don't want them feeling like they are being quizzed. Rather choose one and let the conversation go from there.
If they are not in the mood to chat, don't force it. It's got nothing to do with you, as they may be overstimulated by the days activities and are most likely exhausted.
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What you could focus on rather is:
- Time and space so that they may decompress (quiet time, music, fresh air, etc.)
- Try to reconnect with them
- Most importantly feed them, don't ask them if they want a snack, just give it to them.
You know what they say, food nourishes your mind and your body.
If you want to, you can add in: "I'm excited to hear about your day when you're ready to share."
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