As parents, we’re always talking with our kids. We generally ask about their day, what they learned in school, or what they want to be when they grow up. But did you know that by simply “twisting” some of these everyday questions, we can help our children develop critical thinking skills? Small tweaks in how we ask questions can open doors to big ideas!
Here are some easy-to-try question twists that can make a real difference. They don’t take extra time—just a slight change in how we ask. Let us look at a few common questions and how to turn them into sparks for critical thinking!
Typical Question: “How was your day?”
Twist: “What made you smile today? Was there anything that made you feel sad?”
When we ask, “How was your day?” the response is usually simple: “It was good,” or “I played with friends.” But by asking what made them smile or feel sad, we encourage a deeper reflection. This way, they think about what made them feel happy or What went against their wish. It helps them focus on moments that brought them joy or made them gloomy.
How it helps: Questions like these help kids develop self-awareness and empathy. They start recognizing which parts of their day they enjoy most. They also begin to think constructively about their emotions and actions.
Typical Question: “What’s your favourite subject?”
Twist: “Is there a subject you’d love to learn every day? Why?”
Children usually enjoy talking about their favourite subject, but by tweaking the question, we can prompt them to think creatively. Maybe they’ll come up with “Space Exploration,” “Inventions,” or “Storytelling.” This twist also gives them a sense of exploration about their own interests. As they imagine learning their favourite subject more often, they may even think about how they would make it more interesting.
How it helps: This question allows kids to think outside the box and reflect on their own interests. They’re not just choosing a subject—they’re also considering the reasons behind their preferences.
Typical Question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
Twist: “If you could help others and make a living, what job would you choose?”
Instead of focusing on just any job, this question makes them think about the impact they want to have. Kids might say they’d like to be a “teacher who helps children” or an “inventor who makes life easier for people.” This shift encourages them to see work as a way to contribute to the world, even in a small way.
How it helps: By thinking about how they want to help others, children begin to explore empathy and purpose. They see work as more than a job—it becomes a way to make a difference, helping them build a sense of responsibility and community-mindedness.
Typical Question: “What did you learn in school today?”
Twist: “Can you teach me something you learned today?”
When we ask kids to “teach” us something, it empowers them. They start thinking about what they’ve learned and how to explain it. This twist makes them proud of their knowledge, and explaining a topic helps reinforce what they’ve learned. For example, if they learned about plant life, they may try to explain it in their own words, which builds confidence and deepens understanding.
How it helps: Teaching what they learned helps kids develop clarity. It also boosts self-esteem and communication skills because they feel trusted to share their knowledge.
Typical Question: “Who’s your favourite hero?”
Twist: “What makes your hero special to you?”
Instead of getting a quick answer, this twist makes kids think about why they admire someone. They might say, “My hero helps others” or “They’re brave and stand up for what’s right.” It gets them thinking about values and what matters to them, instead of just saying a name.
How it helps: This question prompts kids to think deeply about what qualities they respect. It encourages character development and helps them identify values they may want to emulate in their own lives.
Typical Question: “Who’s your favourite hero?”
Building Critical Thinking Every Day By adding simple twists to everyday questions, we can encourage our kids to think more critically, develop empathy, and explore their creativity. These small changes help them connect more deeply with the world around them, offering a fresh perspective.
So, the next time you ask about their day, try a question twist and see where it leads. It doesn’t have to be the exact questions listed here. Just ask questions with a little twist that tickles their brain cells. You might be surprised by the new insights they share!
Critical thinking doesn’t begin with complex ideas; it starts with the small, everyday moments we share with our kids.