According to a notice posted to the Murray City School District website, the National PTA provided a list of 30 questions designed to help parents engage in meaningful conversations with their children about the school year.
The resource suggests that parents use specific questions to move beyond one-word answers like "Fine" during the first month of school. For elementary school students, the guide recommends concrete questions about specific moments, people, or feelings. Examples include asking about the funniest thing that happened or who a child sat with at lunch.
For middle school students, the guide suggests questions that allow for reflection on social dynamics and independence. Suggestions include asking about the biggest surprise of the school year or which class a student thinks they will enjoy most. For high school students, the resource advises focusing on the bigger picture, such as personal goals, challenges, and how they want to spend their time.
The guide advises parents to look for natural opportunities to check in, such as in the car or during dinner, and to listen to answers without immediately offering advice or solutions.
