Questions Kids Ask
Young children ask lots of questions – and expect us to know the answers! They want to know why the sky is blue, why the grass is green, and why sugar tastes sweet. Some of their questions are funny, and some are embarrassing. Some can be challenging to answer, especially if you haven’t been in a classroom for a while!
When Young Kids Ask Tough Questions
They will also ask other questions that are challenging in a different way because they make you feel uncomfortable and unsure how to respond. As hard as it may be to discuss, for example, death, race, or sex, it is important that you try to do so when your child asks. View their questions as “teachable moments” – that is, chances to teach your values and beliefs to your child.
Start by asking a question
When asked any particularly challenging question, the first step is to figure out what your child already understands. Start with a question of your own to get an idea of their baseline knowledge. For example, if they ask, “Where do babies come from?” your first step could be to say something like, “Tell me, where do you think they come from?”
Encourage their interest
Let them know they have good questions, and that you’re glad they’re asking you. Then you can take a moment to gather your thoughts. Other tips that can help:
- Try not to laugh or giggle, even if the question is cute. You want to show your child that you value and respect their curiosity.
- Try not to appear overly embarrassed or serious about the matter.
- Keep it simple and brief. They’ll often be satisfied with a short answer.
- To see if your child wants or needs to know more, you can follow up your answers with, “Does that answer your question?
- Be prepared to repeat yourself or find a new way to express your point. You may need to come up with creative examples or find something in your child’s familiar life you can use as a comparison.
Being willing to tackle even the toughest kid questions is a smart move as a parent. Your child will know where to go when they have questions – to you, their most reliable source for honest and trustworthy answers.
About the Author
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