It’s the same routine every afternoon. Your kid walks in the door, drops their backpack like it personally offended them, and you ask the classic: “How was school today?”
Cue the dreaded response:
“Fine.”
Or the always informative:
“Good.”
... and if you’re really lucky:
“I don’t remember.”
But don’t worry — you’re not alone. As our kids settle into new routines this school year, many of us are looking for better ways to spark real conversations. So instead of asking questions that hit a conversational dead end, try one of these mom-tested, actually-gets-a-response alternatives.
10 After-School Questions That Go Beyond "Fine"
These questions are designed to help you connect, get the inside scoop, and maybe even make your kid laugh. Bookmark this list and keep it in your back pocket — or screenshot it for the school pickup line.
1. What was the funniest thing that happened today?
Humor is a great icebreaker — and even shy kids love sharing a good laugh.
2. Who did you sit next to at lunch? What did they eat?
This turns the question into something visual and specific (and kids love to report on someone else’s lunchbox contents).
 Andres R. | Canva |
3. What was something weird or unexpected that happened today?
You’ll be surprised how often the answer is way better than you expected.
4. Which part of the day felt the longest?
A sneaky way to find out what’s boring them — or if anything felt hard or frustrating.
5. Did your teacher say anything funny or unusual today?
Teachers have personalities too — and this gives kids a safe way to reflect on the classroom vibe.
6. What was the best thing you saw on the playground/in the hallway/in class?
Asking for something they saw takes the pressure off and invites storytelling.
7. If you could delete one part of your day, what would it be?
Warning: This one might open the door to real talk — from pop quizzes to cafeteria chaos.
8. What’s one thing you’re proud of doing today?
Perfect for building confidence and helping them reflect on small wins.
9. What’s one rule at school you think is really weird?
Kids love to rant about the no-hats, no-talking, no-fun rules — and this one usually sparks a passionate (and hilarious) answer.
10. What’s one thing you’re hoping happens tomorrow?
It gets them thinking ahead and helps you learn what they’re excited (or worried) about.
 Fizkes | Canva |
Why This Works
The key is to ask open-ended, playful, or unexpected questions — and not to fire them off all at once. Try one during a snack break, in the car, or while brushing hair before bed. You might be surprised at what your child opens up about when the pressure’s off.
ChatGPT helped write this article, but only after we bribed it with snacks and stickers.
