blog post
talk to me, dad! 15 conversation starters for fathers and their kids
- the important of fathers and father figures
- tips for dads to start the conversation
- conversation starters for girls and boys
- more resources from On Our Sleeves
Let’s hear it for the dads! Sometimes Father’s Day can get lost among graduations, summer activities, and busy schedules. But it’s important to recognize just how much father figures impact children’s mental wellness!
why fathers matter for mental wellness
Research shows that whether or not a father or father figure lives in the same home, being actively involved in a child’s life makes a big difference. When dads show up consistently, it helps children:
- Build stronger, long-term positive relationships
- Develop higher self-esteem
- Experience better overall well-being
Fathers and father figures act as role models for children on how to be responsible adults, have healthy relationships, and how to grow their resilience. Any positive male adult can have a positive impact on a child’s life whether that be a coach, neighbor, stepfather, teacher, or father of the child’s friend.
Building that kind of meaningful connection doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple question or a thoughtful conversation to open the door. To help dads start those important talks, here are 15 conversation starters designed to spark connection and support your child’s emotional well-being.
how dads can support mental wellness with conversations
Talking with your kids about how they feel isn’t always easy. Sometimes, they don’t know how to begin or aren’t sure if you have time to listen. Conversation starters are simple questions that help break the ice and make it easier for your child to open up.
These questions help build trust while showing your child you are interested in and support their mental wellness. When kids feel heard, they’re more likely to share what’s on their mind and feel better about themselves.
Quick tips for getting the conversation started
- Keep it casual: Start when you’re doing something together, like driving or cooking, so it feels natural.
- Listen more than you talk: Show you’re paying attention by nodding or repeating what they say. Don’t forget to put your phone away!
- Be patient: Sometimes kids need time before they open up. Don’t rush or pressure them.
- Ask open questions: Questions that can’t be answered with just “yes” or “no” invite more sharing.
- Share your own stories: Opening up about your feelings can make your child feel safer to do the same.
Starting the conversation may seem intimidating but like anything it takes practice. On Our Sleeves has several resources to share how to start the conversation and keep it going. Look at our conversation starting blogs here.
- How to start the conversation (and keep them going)
- How asking the right questions encourages conversations
- Starting the conversation with kids: 40+ fun and engaging questions to ask
conversation starters for connecting with girls
- What are some goals you have for your future?
- What do you most like to do with me?
- What characteristics make a good father?
- How can I support you right now?
- How are guys treating you at school?
- What are things boys don’t understand about girls?
- What is something you don’t understand about boys?
conversation starters to build bonds with boys
- If you could change one thing in the world, what would you change?
- What makes someone a good father?
- When was the last time you cried? What did you cry about?
- What should a father do when their child breaks a rule?
- How can I support you right now?
- What do you enjoy doing with me?
- What are some areas you would like more independence from me?
explore more On Our Sleeves resources
Breaking the stigma can be a life long journey that we do together! If you're looking for more ways to support your child's mental wellness, we invite you to join the On Our Sleeves e-community for more free, expert-created resources!
Our mission is to provide as many caring adults as possible with tools to understand and promote children’s mental health. By joining us, you'll get monthly resources, expert advice, and first access to special giveaways—like our Activity Book and Conversation Starter Cards.
Click the orange button below to sign up and be part of the movement to support kids' mental wellness and break the stigma around mental health!
