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ome questions take courage to ask. A child might hesitate before voicing a why they think is strange, personal, or too big. But those are often the questions that matter most. When you meet them with genuine interest—“That’s a fascinating one”—you show that it’s safe to speak boldly. Your calm presence makes it easier for them to follow curiosity into uncertain spaces. In a world that often rewards conformity, your support gives them permission to stand out—and stand strong.

One evening, my son asked why some people believe in luck. “What do you think?” I asked. He offered a quiet theory, then a louder one. I nodded, curious. That moment opened the door to deeper questions—about belief, chance, patterns. He started testing ideas out loud, asking bigger things with growing confidence. That habit didn’t come from right answers. It came from knowing his voice would be heard, even when he wasn’t sure.

To keep that voice growing strong, make space for questions that push boundaries. If a younger child wonders about a strange toy noise, follow it with, “Let’s find out more.” If a teen asks about a complex topic—how a device works or why people argue—encourage deeper conversation. Invite them to share a favorite recent “why” with a sibling, friend, or mentor. These small acts of expression—spoken, shared, explored—build their nerve and help them carry their curiosity forward with pride.

TIPS

• Share whys to spark joy.
• Praise boldness to fuel curiosity.
• Track whys to deepen their gaze.

ACTIVITIES

• Toy Share: Share a toy why with kin at home, praise their voice—10–15 min
• Tech Praise: Praise a teen’s bold why at home, invite their idea—10–15 min
• Why Swap: Share one bold why with a friend or sibling—notice how it grows when voiced again (10–15 min)