Questions to ask students about school instead of “how was your day.” Instead, use these 24 questions to start a conversation about school to spark your child.
Questions to Ask Students about School
Some kids don’t like to share information about their school day. But, a lot of that has to do with the approach you take to encourage them to open up and talk.
Inevitably, after the first few weeks of school you’re already into the routine of asking, “how was your day?” to which you’ll likely hear these general responses:
- Fine
- Good
- Okay
- Not Good
- It Was Fine
Which leaves me scratching my head because that gave me exactly NO information whatsoever about how their day went, what happened, who they sat by or played with, or even what they’re learning.
I went through this routine when my twins began Kindergarten but the lackluster responses made me feel distant from my kids and I had a general idea of what they did the 35 hours a week they were at school, but not enough detail to feel comfortable.
I didn’t know what they were feeling about their time at school, if they were making friends, or if they even liked their teacher.
I’d watch their Grandpa ask the same general questions like “how is school going?” or “how’s school?” and he’d be left without much insight either.
That’s when I decided to get creative with my questions.
I knew I had to come up with conversation starters that wouldn’t elicit a general response, but would spark my kids so they WANT to tell me more.
These are my favorite 24 after-school questions to start a conversation about school, what they’re learning, friends and peers.
24 Questions to Start a Conversation About School
Once you download your printable of the 24 after school conversation starters (link is below the image and you’ll be able to simply click and download the free PDF printable), I suggest you keep this on your fridge, one in the car or your purse, or in a place where you’ll see it and be reminded to ask questions that spark your child.
I know I need reminders for just about everything these days and love having this handy to start a conversation about school.
Here’s what the printable looks like (simple, easy to download, print and save!)
PDF Printable Download:
Download Your 24 Questions to Start a Conversation About School
More School Related Resources
- Navigating the After-School Meltdown: How to Help Your Child
- Best First Day of School Tradition to Help Calm School Nervousness
- Back to School: 1 Month of School Lunch Ideas Kids Will Actually Eat
- How to Ease Separation Anxiety in Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers
- 14 Factors That Influence a Child’s Behavior or Trigger Their Misbehavior
