A Quick Way to Connect with Your Kids Each Morning

I’m always looking for ways I can connect with my kids, especially the older one who is at school most of the day. A few years ago we started this little routine and it has been very meaningful to all of us.

As we’re driving our kids to school or walking them into the school we ask them a question that requires a response. To keep it easy and so we can remember, the questions are tied to days of the week. If you do this you could make up whatever questions you want. The point is to have a little connection and hear something positive from your child as you leave them at school.

Mornings can be tough. I’m reading this book that tackles the topic: how to have a smoother morning. I remember so many days when my boys were younger Dean would be crying and someone would be in a bad mood–not name names here. Soon, complaining or arguing would take over our car and by the time we reached school (just before the bell) Grant would hop out of the car and we would both start the day with zero connection to each other.

5 Quick Discussion Topics to Start the Day

These are the discussion topics we use. Feel free to use them yourself or create your own. This whole thing was my husband’s idea and I love it so much. Most days I can’t wait to turn down the radio, take a little pause in the chaos and say, “Ok boys, it is Fantastic Friday. Why is today fantastic?” We all take a turn giving our answers. Sometimes my heart swells with happiness and pride and other times they say random things, but the point is the connection and that is what I feel every time we have this little talk.

1. “Marvelous” Monday – Example: Today is marvelous because I get to go to the library, have coffee with a friend, go to the playground, etc…
2. “Terrific” Tuesday – Example: Today is terrific because I am prepared for my spelling test, we get to see our grandparents after school, we are having Chinese dumplings for dinner, etc.
3. “We are” Wednesday – This one is about our family. Our last name is Pittman so we talk about things that a Pittman would do. Example: Pittmans are on-time, helpful, love ice cream, etc.
4. “Thankful” Thursday – Example: Everyone says at least one thing they are thankful for. Getting to eat in the cafeteria today, seeing the fog on the mountains, etc.
5. “Fantastic” Friday – Example: Today is fantastic because tomorrow is Saturday, we have P.E., it’s field trip Friday, etc…

How do you connect with your kids in the morning? I’d love to hear.

You may also like Parent and Child Question Journal or 5 Board Games 5-Year-Olds Will Love.

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