Dinner Time Banter: Getting Your Teen to Open Up

Ever felt like your teenager's turned into a bit of a vault, locked tight and you're fresh out of combinations? We've cooked up a cheeky list of conversation kick-starters that'll get even the most tight-lipped teen gabbing away, and give you some insights into their developing personalities.

1. "Imagine snapping your fingers and becoming an instant expert at something – what's the skill you'd choose to master, and why?"

2. "If you could snag any superpower for a day, how would you use your new powers?"

3. "You can invite anyone to dinner – who's coming, and what questions would you ask them?"

4. "Imagine you could exchange lives with anyone for one week. Who would you choose and what would you do?"

5. "Imagine hopping into a time machine – which era in time would you explore?"

6. "Imagine stepping into the pages of history – which monumental event would you want to witness first-hand?"

7. "What’s one mystery of the universe you’d love the answer to, and why?"

8. "If you could write a song heard by millions, what message would you want to send?"

9. "If you could morph into any creature, which animal would you be, and what would your life be like?"

10. "Imagine teleporting yourself anywhere in the world – where are you going and who's joining you?"

11. "What’s the most innovative invention you can imagine that could transform everyday life?"

12. "Imagine creating a new holiday – what would it celebrate and how?"

13. "If you could meet any celebrity, who would it be, and what would you ask them first?"

14. "If you could ensure one positive change for Earth's future, what would it be?"

15. "Picture being stranded on a deserted island – what are your three essential survival items?"

Engaging in conversations with your teenager goes beyond mere chit-chat; it's a chance to delve deeper into their world and build a stronger bond. As psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour suggests, consistent communication breeds emotional closeness, making your teen feel heard and valued. So, whip out these conversation starters and uncover more about your teen's quirks, passions, and aspirations.

DADDING IN ACTION

Starting tonight, make it a new fun routine to ask one of these questions and let the debates begin!