How do you get your kids talking at the table?
1. Keep It Casual
Don't ask your child a direct question. It could put them on the spot and they'll shut down. Open conversations with your own stories to urge them to join in.
2. Play Games
Fill a bag with slips of paper containing a bunch of topics. At dinner, take turns picking out a topic and discussing it.
3. Make 'em Laugh
Ask what was one funny thing that happened at school that day.
4. Include Others
Teach them to show empathy for others. Ask questions about the people in their lives - friends, teachers - reinforces the idea that others' feelings are important.
5. Get Details
Ask who they sat with. Who they played with at recess. What happened on the bus, etc. Specific questions might be what they need to get them talking.
(Source: Real Simple magazine)
