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hildren take their cues from how you approach new ideas. When you wonder aloud or notice something odd, you signal that curiosity isn’t just for kids—it’s for everyone. These simple moments show that questions deserve space, that wonder matters. Like the ancient agoras, where grown thinkers asked open-ended questions in public squares, your home can become a space where discovery feels natural and shared.

One evening, I paused at the sound of birdsong. “That’s a strange tune today,” I said. My son tilted his head, listening too. “Maybe they’re arguing,” he offered. We spun theories, both silly and serious, letting the mystery pull us along. That exchange didn’t lead to a tidy answer—it led to more noticing, more questions. It taught him that ideas don’t always land neatly, but they still matter.

To raise a child who stays open to new ideas, let your own curiosity show. Share the questions that cross your mind at dinner or during errands. Invite their take before offering your own. These habits—simple, consistent—help your child develop mental flexibility. Over time, they’ll learn that the world is not just a place to master but a place to explore.

TIPS

• Share a daily curiosity, like “I wonder why…”

• Invite their guesses to spark joint exploration.

• Praise their questions to boost openness.

ACTIVITIES

• Bird Talk: At dinner, ask, “What was curious about birds today?” Discuss for 15 minutes to foster openness.
• Find Talk: On a walk, ask, “What new thing do you see?” Discuss for 10 minutes to encourage curiosity.