Does your child struggle to answer questions, or not answer at all? It is not unusual for children with language difficulties to lack the words to form an answer, or to not understand the question in the first place. You may have a child who looks at you blankly, or gives an answer that leaves you thinking, “Where on earth did that come from?” This quick start guide covers answering wh questions with your child.
How to Check Your Child’s Skills With Wh Questions
First, find out which question types are hard for your child. Start at the beginning and ask 10 of each type, such as who, what, where, when, and why. Then work out a percentage. If your child answers 80 to 100 percent correctly, you can consider that question type a strength. Otherwise, it is time to practice.
How to Practice Answering Wh Questions
Structured Tasks
Use a set of picture cards to target one question type at a time. You can buy cards or make your own. For example, use pictures of actions to target “What is he doing?” questions. Point to each picture and ask, “What is he, she, or they doing?” Because this task repeats and has visual support, it is a good place to start.
Book Reading
Books are great for wh questions. Pick a book that fits the question type you are targeting. For example, Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes works well for “where” questions. Pete goes to different places at school, and the book keeps asking, “Where is Pete?”
Play
Practice carrying skills over by asking questions during play. Hide items and ask, “Where is the ball?” Or have toy animals or people do actions, and ask, “What is the dog doing?” Be creative and have fun.
How to Give Prompts So Your Child Succeeds
Give the least amount of help your child needs to be successful. Start with a little help, such as a choice of two answers or the first sound of the word. Then add more help only if your child needs it. Our post on the power of choices shows how offering choices works.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I teach my child to answer wh questions?
Practice one question type at a time with picture cards, books, and play. Give just enough help for your child to succeed.
Why does my child not answer questions?
Some children do not have the words for an answer, or they do not understand the question. A speech-language evaluation can show which it is.
How do I know if my child has mastered a question type?
Ask 10 questions of one type. If your child answers 80 to 100 percent correctly, that type is going well.
How ETLC Can Help
If your child has trouble understanding or answering questions, our speech-language pathologists can help. Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center has locations in Johnston and North Liberty, IA, with virtual services also available.
Learn more about language therapy at ETLC or schedule a free consultation to talk with a member of our team.
You may also find these pages helpful:
- Follow Directions and Answer Questions
- The Power of Choices for Kids
- Tips for Targeting Goals With Pete the Cat
About the Author
Sonia Strueby, M.A., CCC-SLP, is the founder of Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center. With over 25 years of experience as a speech-language pathologist, Sonia has dedicated her career to helping children overcome complex communication and academic challenges. She has advanced training and a special focus on treating dyslexia and childhood apraxia of speech, and she is passionate about providing families with a clear path to success.
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