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Slide 3 of 10

Ask Questions, and Listen to the Answers

Although your first instinct might be to do all the talking, a more effective strategy is letting your child take the lead. To do this, ask your kids questions about what they do and do not know, and listen to what your child is actually thinking. This will give you an idea of where they stand and what they still need (or do not need) to learn. As Anderson says, "The great thing about children is once you start the conversation, they can and will help you move it along by asking questions."

Of course, there may be a few questions you don't have an answer for or aren't sure how to respond to, and that's perfectly fine. Anderson suggests researching these subjects together, not only to educate your child but also to strengthen your bond in the process. Tamika Killins, principal of the KIPP SPARK Academy in New Jersey, also encourages parents to reflect on their own experiences and consider what they do and don't know beforehand, so they can be prepared to learn alongside their child.