Every day when we get back home, we are often greeted by the question “how was your day?”
Whether you’re welcoming a young child or a teenager, the answer is usually a very brief “ok” and off they go to something else!
However, with a few minor changes to your question, you might open the door to possibilities for more interesting conversations.
Asking a more specific question regarding their day will be showing your child that you follow their daily challenges and accomplishments.
Questions to ask other than ‘how was your day’:
- How do you think you did on your math test today?
- How far did you get on the ( …story, project ) you started yesterday?
- Did you play with someone new during recess today?
- What are you working on in science now that unit … is over?
- What book did your teacher start reading today?
- Did your teacher read another chapter of the story ? What is happening now?
Why these questions work
Trying to frame your question so that your child has to answer with a few more words than just a yes or a no will help you move the conversation along.
Your conversation 
might give you an opportunity to recount an anecdote that happened to you when you were that age!
More conversation openers
Use their artwork
You could use a piece of art that you find in their school bag to start your conversation.
Your child will have many more details to tell you about how this piece was created, such as how hard or easy it was or how much he / she liked doing this kind of work.
Talk about a French assignment
A paper written in French would also be interesting (but don’t ask your child to translate it for you)! Your child already did the work! Instead turn the conversation to the fact that you like to write or the difficulties you experience yourself when writing.
Focus on open-ended questions
Using open-ended questions might also open the door for a conversation on another topic that you would not have thought of when you asked that question or your child might engage in recounting some events that happened during the day!
Listening is as important as asking questions
Be ready to listen when your child comes with a question or a comment. Children don’t keep it for the scheduled dinner conversation!
Connecting with your child on a daily or regular basis is key.
Just like it is for all of us, there will be days when there is more for them to talk about than others, but knowing that you as a parent are available is what’s most important for them.
