It can be really hard to get your kids to open up, but it’s so important! The classic “How was your day?” often leads to monosyllabic responses that don’t really open the door to deeper communication.
Over the years, my family and I have discovered that the key to getting our kids talking (especially our teens) is to ask questions that genuinely pique their interest and make them think.
We built this list of family conversation starters because we couldn’t find one that truly got us all talking and having FUN together! Don’t miss the free printable at the end of this article so that you can have these questions on hand the next time you need them.
Fun Family Conversation Starters
Here are some of the best family conversation starters we’ve found, categorized to help you find the perfect question for any situation.
Questions for After School
- What made you laugh today?
- This question often reveals the humorous side of their day and can lead to funny stories that everyone can enjoy.
- Did you meet anyone new?
- Encourages kids to share their social experiences and helps parents understand their social circles.
- Were you able to help anyone today?
- Promotes empathy and reflection on their actions and the impact they have on others.
- What was the hardest thing you had to do today?
- Opens up discussions about challenges and resilience, offering an opportunity for parents to provide support and advice.
- Who did you hang out with today?
- Keeps parents informed about their kids’ friendships and social interactions.
- What was the most interesting thing your teacher said today?
- Opens up discussions about their classes and favorite subjects.
- What did you do during your free time today?
- Gives insight into how they spend their downtime.
Would You Rather Questions
- Would you rather be rich or famous?
- Stimulates discussions about values and aspirations.
- Would you rather have super slow internet or low phone battery?
- A light-hearted way to talk about priorities and modern-day inconveniences.
- Would you rather have a turbo boost on your car (you can use once a day) or shoot turtle shells at any car that cuts you off?
- Brings humor into the conversation and can lead to imaginative scenarios.
- Would you rather always be late for everything, or always be 2 hours early?
- Offers insight into their preferences and attitudes towards time management.
- Would you rather have to hunt for your food or grow everything you eat?
- Encourages them to think about survival skills and self-sufficiency.
- Would you rather explore space or the deep sea?
- Stimulates imaginative thinking about adventure and discovery.
- Would you rather never have to sleep or never have to eat?
- Prompts discussions about their daily routines and preferences.
Get to Know You Questions
- What is your favorite thing to do as a family?
- Highlights family bonding activities and can lead to planning more of these cherished moments.
- What are your top 3 meals right now? Be specific.
- Provides insight into their current tastes and can inspire meal planning.
- It would make my day if you…
- A sweet way to express desires and needs, fostering mutual understanding and support.
- What is your favorite dessert/treat right now?
- Sparks discussions about food preferences and potential treat days.
- If you could go anywhere on vacation, where would you go?
- Fuels dreams and discussions about future family vacations.
- What is something you are really good at?
- Encourages them to talk about their skills and talents.
Pop Culture Questions
- What movie are you dying to see?
- Keeps you in the loop about their entertainment interests and can lead to movie night plans.
- What song are you playing on repeat right now?
- Opens up conversations about music tastes and can lead to shared listening sessions.
- What musician would you want to see in concert?
- Helps you understand their favorite artists and maybe even plan a concert outing.
- Who is your celebrity crush?
- A fun way to dive into their pop culture interests and understand their idols.
- What TV show are you currently binge-watching?
- Keeps you up to date with their entertainment choices.
- If you could be any character from a book or movie, who would you be?
- Stimulates imaginative thinking and shares their favorite stories.
- What trend do you think is overrated?
- Encourages critical thinking about current fads and trends.
- If you could create your own video game, what would it be about?
- Sparks creativity and interest in gaming and storytelling.
Download our FREE PRINTABLE so you can bring the fun family conversation starters to the dinner table tonight!
Practical Tips for Using Conversation Starters
The teenage years have been far more enjoyable than we ever anticipated, and we believe a big part of that is our focus on bonding and communication. By fostering open dialogue from a young age, we’ve created an environment where our kids feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.
To practically implement these conversation starters, we typically set aside specific times when phones and other distractions are put away. Family dinners are a perfect opportunity for this. We have a “phones away” rule at the dinner table, ensuring that everyone is present and engaged.
Car rides are another time we like to throw these questions into the mix to make the most of our time together. Even casual hangouts at home can be turned into meaningful moments with the right questions.
It’s important to create a routine that works for your family. Whether it’s during meals, road trips, or relaxed evenings, having a dedicated time for conversation can significantly enhance your family’s communication. It’s not just about getting your kids talking; it’s about connecting on a deeper level and showing genuine interest in their lives.
The teenage years can be a challenging time for both parents and kids, but they can also be incredibly rewarding. By making a conscious effort to engage in meaningful conversations, you can strengthen your bond and create lasting memories. Family traditions, favorite family vacations, and shared interests in books, movies, and sports can all be great topics to explore.
In today’s world, where cell phones and other devices often dominate our attention, it’s more important than ever to carve out time for real conversations. Encourage your kids to put their phones away during these discussions and lead by example. Remember, the goal is not just to get your kids talking, but to create an environment where they feel heard, valued, and understood.
The next time you’re at a loss for words, try one of these questions and watch the magic unfold!
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Pin for Later – Family Conversation Starters That Will Actually Get Your Kids Talking
Emily, a seasoned travel writer and editor, has traversed the Western United States, calling places like California, Arizona, Wyoming, Montana, and now Washington her home. With a passion for exploring and a particular fondness for unique Airbnb stays, she brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to every piece she writes.
