share

Answering Kids' Tough Questions

When parents are stumped by an awkward or unusual question, these proven strategies can help them find the right response.

Prev  1 2 3 (of 7)  Next

Why They Ask

Kids are bound to ask "those questions" -- the simple ones that are the hardest to answer, that pry into your private life or leave you feeling inconsistent or hypocritical if you reply the wrong way. You may struggle to answer certain questions, or be stunned by the idea that kids think about these things at such a young age.

"Kids may also ask questions as a way to tell you there's something deeper on their minds," says John Sommers-Flanagan, professor of counselor education at the University of Montana and coauthor of Problem Child or Quirky Kid. "Kids aren't always good at articulating their concerns, so they may hide a question within a question."

As you'll see in the queries posed here, there are no truly "right" answers to kids' most probing questions. However, being able to respond appropriately is key to helping kids grow into open-minded, responsible adults.


Continued on page 2:  What Are You Doing with the Door Closed?

 

Related Links

The Garden Editors at Better Homes and Gardens answer all your toughest gardening questions.

Get answers to the top 20 diabetes questions--from how to improve circulation to eating with food allergies--with help of the Diabetic Living experts.

Bedroom design ideas for the kids.

Related Videos

Start with delicious asparagus, then build a buffet of easy add-ons to please everyone's palate.

Let your kids turn store-bought cookies into adorable snowmen with gumdrops, chocolate candy, and frosting.

Kids can transform plain gingerbread cookies into colorful characters with these sweet decorating ideas.



Comments

Comments ( 0 )
1871312868

Add your comment

Send to Facebook
 

BHG Real Estate

Find a new home

browse listings

BHG Brands

Discover our BHG-branded furniture, fabrics, bedding & more

learn more
 
  • Videos
  • Top Tools
  • Calendar
  • Win Daily
Dip into these fresh ideas for strawberries. The classic flavor combinations go beyond traditional chocolate.

Start with delicious asparagus, then build a buffet of easy add-ons to please everyone's palate.

Turn a plain-Jane store-bought curtain into something special using beads. No need to sew, just pat them into place ...

Red Kitchen

Color a Room

See how easy and cost-efficient home improvement can be through painting. Try our FREE and easy tool now!

Try It Now!

All Top Tools

Todays Daily Prize
ADVERTISEMENT



 

 
By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Service.