THE POWER OF SAYING "WHAT DO YOU THINK?"

We look at how this simple sentence can open up a whole new world of conversation between you and your child.

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Sometimes, the smallest changes in how we speak to our children can have the biggest impact. One stand-out phrase that should be part of every parent’s arsenal is “What do you think?” These four simple words are brilliant for growing kids’ confidence and critical thinking, as well as opening up dialogue between you both. Whether it’s used during problem-solving moments or day-to-day decision-making, this simple question empowers your child to express themselves, think independently, and feel like their thoughts are valued.

DECISION-MAKING

When you ask your child, “What do you think?”, you’re inviting them to take part in decisions, big or small. This approach shifts the dynamic from simply following instructions to actively contributing ideas. For instance, instead of saying, “We’re having pasta for dinner,” try asking, “What do you think we should have for dinner tonight, spaghetti or penne?”

Even if their answer isn’t practical, the act of involving them reinforces their role as a valued member of the family. It also helps develop children’s decision-making skills, which form an essential part of growing up. Over time, this practice encourages them to think critically about their preferences and how they approach decisions in other aspects of life.

CRITICAL THINKING