Promote thinking skills with engaging conversations
In elementary school, teachers expect students to think about what they’ve read and then draw conclusions. To give your child practice developing this ability:
Ask open-ended questions that require your elementary schooler to think. For example, after you watch a TV show together, have a discussion. “Why do you think the character did that?” or “Do you think things like that happen in real life?”
Share your thoughts when you are making a decision. You might say, “I am still not sure which refrigerator to buy.” Then, talk about the pros and cons of each choice. Your child may have some insights.
Set aside time to read together—and then talk about what you’ve read. Some families make one meal a week their “reading dinner.” Family members bring a book to the table and talk about it and ask questions about what everyone else is reading.
Make the most of car time. The best conversations often take place in the car while you are driving. So ask about what’s going on in your child’s life.
Keep a shared journal. Try reading the same book. Take turns writing notes to each other about your reactions to what you’ve read.
Explore different perspectives. When discussing a topic, encourage your child to think about other viewpoints. Ask “How do you think someone else might feel about this?” or “What would you do if you were in their shoes?”
Reprinted with permission from the December 2024 issue of Parents make the difference!® (Elementary School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2024 The Parent Institute®, a division of PaperClip Media, Inc.