Ask Your Daughter Questions

Did you know that your daughter needs your questions more than your answers? Using questioning will help your daughter engage her brain in solving problems and in internalizing good thinking. For example:

“Why do you think that happened?”

“What might be a way to help solve the problem?”

“How did you think your friend felt when you said that?”

“What would happen if you … ?”

By giving her all of the answers, you will cheat your daughter of the opportunity to become an independent thinker and develop an inner voice that she will need to make important decisions when you are not there to help her. By engaging her in a curious, inquisitive discussion that engages her in an active manner, you will help her grow and will empower her for the long-term rather than provide quick relief from short-term issues.

By Dr. Marion Swanson