Hello fabulous parents and Happy Monday!
As a child psychologist and parenting expert, mom of 2, and auntie to 5…. one of the most wonderful things I witness is children’s natural curiosity. Their endless stream of “why?” questions may sometimes feel overwhelming for parents, but it’s important to remember that these moments of wonder are a window into how your child thinks and learns about the world.
Children’s inquisitiveness reflects their growing minds. Whether they’re asking why the sky is blue, how birds fly, or why we feel sad, their questions are more than just chatter. They are opportunities for connection and understanding as your child tries to make sense of the world around them.
As parents, it can feel like we need to have all the answers. But here’s a reassuring truth: it’s okay not to know. In fact, admitting you don’t know and being curious together can be a powerful moment for your child. So, instead of feeling pressure to provide a perfect answer, you can reframe their questions to explore their thoughts. For example, if they ask, “Why do stars twinkle?” you might respond, “That’s a great question! What do you think?” This gives you insight into their thinking and encourages deeper reflection. It also allows you a moment to decide what you want to say with thought.
When you don’t have an answer, consider investigating together. You could look it up, read a book, call someone who might know and would be delighted at the question, or watch a video. Not only does this foster curiosity and learning, but it also shows your child that even adults don’t know everything—and that’s perfectly fine!!! It turns their question into a shared experience, where both of you are learning side by side.
Wondering is a beautiful thing to witness in a child. It shows their mind is growing, expanding, and eagerly exploring the world’s possibilities. By embracing their curiosity—whether by listening, engaging, or exploring answers together—you nurture their intellectual development and build a deep bond rooted in shared discovery. You might learn something too.
So the next time your child asks one of those tricky questions, remember that you don’t have to know everything. You can embark on a learning journey together, showing them that curiosity and wonder are lifelong companions.
Happy Parenting!
xoxo,
Dr. Marnee