After School Questions

“How was your day?” Does Not Work

You go to pick up your child from school.  They leave smiling and happy.  You can tell they had an awesome day. So you ask….”How was your day?”  Of course the answer is…”Good”. 

Day after day you hear that school is “good”.  You might try and follow up with some other questions that will probably elicit some more one word answers.  When I talk to parents I often hear, “I don’t get too much information about school from my child.”  

We have to keep in mind that “ how was your day” is a big question. There are many parts of their day.  Some parts might have gone well and others not so well.  

3 Questions To Ask Your Child When They Come Home From School

How was (specific subject area)?  

Asking about a specific subject will help your child zero in on a specific part of their day.  They can picture themselves in the art room and describe the events that happened.

What is something funny that happened today?

People usually have the most information about times that have big feelings.  When something is funny or sad or surprising.  By asking this question you are asking your child to focus on a specific feeling they had that day.

What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

This is a great question for kiddos who like to predict or may have not had the best day and need something to look forward to.  This is also helpful so kids don’t have to rely on their memory.  

Children use memory, sequencing, specific vocabulary, and storytelling skills when they tell us about their day.  By asking more specific questions about parts of their day or feelings during their day we are helping them master these skills. 

Remember: After 8 hours at school filled with socializing, learning, teachers asking questions your child might be done for the day.  “Good” might be good enough. That is OK!