After a long day, you’re probably excited to hear all about your child’s day at preschool. Asking a simple “How was school?” may not yield the detailed report you were hoping for. Children will usually respond with “fine” or “okay” leaving you wanting to know a bit more about your child’s day. If you’re searching for some good questions to ask instead, we’ve got you covered. Here is our list of fun, open-ended questions to ask your child:

1. What was the best thing that happened at school today?
2. What made you feel happy or laugh today?
3. Did anyone do something kind for you, or did you do something kind for someone else?
4. Did anything make you sad today? Can you tell me about it?
5. What was the hardest part of your day?
6. What are you looking forward to at school tomorrow?
7. Can you please tell me about a book or story you heard today?
8. Was there an activity or game you played that you enjoyed?
9. What did your teacher talk about at Circle Time today?
10. Who did you play with today, and what did you play?
11. What did you eat today? Did you like it?
12. Can you tell me about a picture you made today?
13. What did you do on the playground today?
14. Were you brave today? How?
15. Is there anything you want to talk about from your day that you haven’t mentioned yet?

Bonus Tips

• Educate yourself on your child’s school day and events and really listen when they do share information with you. Integrate this information into your questions. For example, if you know every Wednesday is Water Play Day or your child has a special event at school, ask specific questions about that. If your child loves bugs, ask what kind of bugs they saw outside that day.
• Some children will not want to share details right after school. You may find that your child is more willing and better able to share information during dinner or at bedtime.

Our list of questions can help you better understand your child’s social interactions, academic experiences, and emotional responses to school life. The key is to listen actively and show genuine interest in their responses. By asking these questions consistently, you’ll create opportunities for meaningful conversations that strengthen your bond and support your child’s overall development.