Let’s start with the obvious. As soon as our kids (or grandkids) get old enough to ask questions they begin shooting them at us at a pace that can be tiring, if not flat out brutal! What isn’t quite so obvious is the potential these seemingly non-stop questions offer the adult who takes the time to answer them.

Granted, all questions are not created equal. We can all agree that our kids ask a lot of questions we can’t and shouldn’t answer because the subject matter isn’t age appropriate, or the issue is simply too far above their heads. But, let’s be honest. There are just as many other times when we put their questions off for no other reason than talking it through requires more effort than we want to make.

Our kids ask questions because there is so much that they simply don’t know. They’re always processing, they’re curious about everything, and they turn to us because they believe we have the answers. Heads up.

Like everything else, this too shall pass.

I know. That wasn’t exactly a news flash. I’m sure we all realize this is a temporary season, but are we taking advantage of it now, so we can remain relative in their lives, later? That’s the question we each need to answer.  (Oops. I wasn’t reaching for that pun, but it worked, right?)

If we hope to have relationships where our kids and grandkids will listen to us later, when the hard subjects arise, let’s be sure we’re talking with them, at not just talking at them. We can do that by creating a culture of conversation during these days when the questions and answers aren’t nearly as crucial. Remember:

-Answering questions all day every day can be draining. If at all possible, do it anyway.  Turn the radio down. Pause the TV. Put away your phone. Talk to them.

-Recognize that we’ll have to be intentional about giving the fuller response, because the just enough reply will always be easier.

-Think through questions along with your miniature inquisitor and send the right message. They’re worth your time and attention. 

These are ways we build the habit and rhythm of conversation into our families, and the yield from such intentional parenting and grandparenting can’t be measured. With God’s help, we can train ourselves to see the daily opportunities we have to invest in the next generation. We can set ourselves up to be heard on the things that matter, by intentionally engaging on the topics that don’t seem to be.  There’s a day straight ahead when we’ll be glad we did!