How to encourage family conversation around the table

Suzy's got a great hack for holiday mealtimes and beyond:

During the holiday season there are many occasions to gather around the table. Consider this game that encourages children and adults alike to share about their day as well as be active listeners. You've heard of the game "Three Truths and a Lie?" Use this format to talk about your day. Each person tells three things about their day, two of which actually did happen and one that didn't. Then, the guests around the table guess which is the "lie."

When our family plays this game not only does each person excitedly participate, but everyone feels validated and listened to, which encourages follow up questions and happy and peaceful subsequent mealtimes. Try adapting this game to share about other topics such as "Christmas Wishes," "Lifetime Dreams," "Vacation Destinations," etc. The possibilities are endless!

Related: Tricks for kick-starting after-school conversations

Comments

[Lisa]

I'm going to try this the next time my husband and I have date night. Maybe then we won't look like such a married-with-kids couple!

[Dione]

Great idea! Instituted new rule earlier this year - the TV stays off while we're eating. But, I find myself asking the same old, stale questions everyday. It was becoming a bit ground hog dayish. Will give this a try. Thanks!

[1stopmom]

Wow, that is a really good tip. With four kids I have gotten tired to the same old questions. I can't wait to tell my extended family. I think it will make dinner time a little more fun.

[zgma]

How funny! We play 2 truths and a lie at the dinner time all the time! It's the only way I can get any info out of my son about what happened during his day. All my other questions lead to "I don't remember." But he loves telling me in game format!