21 Questions to ask your daughter

Having open and meaningful conversations with your daughter can strengthen your relationship and foster trust. Here are 21 questions you might consider asking your daughter to encourage dialogue about her thoughts, feelings, and experiences:

General Well-Being

1. How was your day? What was the best part?

2. Is there anything that made you feel sad or upset today?

3. What are you looking forward to this week?

Dreams and Aspirations

1. What are your biggest dreams or goals right now?

2. If you could be anything when you grow up, what would it be? Why?

3. What skills would you like to learn or improve?

Relationships and Friendship

1. Who do you feel closest to at school or in your social life?

2. Do you have any friends you’re worried about? Why?

3. What qualities do you value most in a friend?

Self-Discovery

1. How do you see yourself? What do you like most about who you are?

2. Are there any things you wish people understood about you?

3. What are your favorite hobbies or things to do for fun?

Challenges and Concerns

1. What’s something that’s been bothering you lately?

2. Have you faced any challenges recently that you would like to share?

3. How do you typically cope when you feel stressed or anxious?

Values and Beliefs

1. What are some qualities that you admire in others?

2. What do you think makes a person truly happy?

3. What do you believe is important in life?

Future Perspectives

1. What’s one thing you want to do together as a family in the future?

2. If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?

3. What do you want to be remembered for?

LAST THOUGHTS…

After asking these 21 questions, be sure to actively listen and provide a safe space for your daughter to express herself. Remember, the goal is to deepen your connection and understanding of her thoughts and feelings. As hard as it may be, try not to get upset or overwhelmed. You want to keep the dialogue open, but she may clam up if she feels she is being judged or will be in trouble. As moms, we often times think we need to have all the answers all of the time. It is ok to listen to what she is saying and then say, “I am going to think about this, and we can talk again soon.” It is ok to need a moment or to take a breath. It will also teach her a valuable lesson of thinking before reacting. Hang in there mama, these questions may be tough one day or one year, but you are setting the foundation for her to come to you.