Tucking your child into bed is a familiar routine, and frequently includes bedtime stories or simply chatting for a few minutes. Asking your child three simple questions every night before they drift into slumber is beneficial for a number of reasons. Let’s review what these questions are and why they are so important to your child’s emotional and mental growth.
The Questions
Ask your child these questions every evening:
- What made you smile today?
- What made you cry/frown today?
- What is something you learned today?
The Benefits
Asking your child these questions helps him or her learn how to communicate. Sharing is a great way to learn the art of communication and remain comfortable while talking to others.
The above questions also give you fantastic insight on what your child thought about the day and how he or she is learning to view the world. It teaches your child how to express him/herself, including the expressing of emotions. Daily reflections on the day helps inspire your child’s thirst for knowledge, something that will hopefully continue throughout his or her life.
Additionally, you get to know your child better when you ask such questions. It’s a time when you can laugh together, share thoughts and feelings, snuggle, and otherwise become closer. Who knows, eventually your child might ask you the same questions and want to know all about your day!
Can you think of other good questions to ask children at bedtime? Share them in the comments!