Decision Tree: Conversation Starters for Connection

 

Because the best reading moments don’t end when the last page closes.

 

Every great story opens a doorway to conversation — to wonder, empathy, and imagination. These prompts help you slow down, listen, and guide your child to think like a reader. Whether you use just one question or a few, the goal is to keep curiosity blooming before, during, and after reading.

 

How to Use These Prompts

 

  1. Keep the tone light and curious.
    Ask like you’re wondering together, not testing comprehension.

  2. Choose just one or two per story.
    Over time, your child will begin to ask their own questions too.

  3. Let silence be part of the magic.
    Give your child a moment to think, imagine, and respond.

  4. Follow their lead.
    If they go off-topic or start retelling the story in their own way — that’s connection happening!

 

Conversation Starters

Stage

 

Prompt Type

 

Example Question

 
Before Reading Ask about the cover “What do you think this story is about?”
  Link to life “Have you ever seen a forest like this?”
During Reading Clarify meaning “Why did she run away?”
  Predict “What might happen next?”
After Reading Reflect “What was your favorite part?”
  Extend “If you were the main character, what would you do?”

 

 

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