Is it hard for your child to answer open-ended questions? Do you feel your child might be more successful if choices were included? The power of choices for kids is a simple idea. Offering two options can turn a question that feels too big into one your child can answer.
Why Open-Ended Questions Are Hard for Some Children
Some children have difficulty answering open-ended questions such as “what” and “where.” Another child might be working on choosing between “yes” and “no.” Just as no two children are the same, no two children learn the same way. At Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center, our mission is to create learning opportunities that are fun, meaningful, and individualized to each child.
How to Create Choices
If your child has trouble with an open-ended question, give them options. For example, the question “What color crayon would you like?” can become “Would you like the pink crayon or the green crayon?” The same idea works in lessons. In a unit on the plant life cycle, we asked a student to choose what came next from two pictures. As a result, he could take part and present what he had learned to his classmates.
Tips for Offering Choices
- Start with two options, one of which your child clearly wants.
- Say each choice aloud and hold up or point to it.
- Wait and give your child time to answer.
- Over time, add a third option, and then try the open-ended question again.
We want every child to be successful. Creating choices builds a positive learning experience, and it helps children feel confident as they answer. For more help with question words, see our post on following directions and answering questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my child struggle to answer open-ended questions?
Open-ended questions need a child to find the right words on their own. Some children find that hard, so choices give them a way to respond.
How do I offer choices to my child?
Give two clear options, such as “the pink crayon or the green crayon.” Also hold up or point to each option while you say it.
Will offering choices make my child rely on me?
Choices are a step, not a stopping point. Over time, add more options and then try the open-ended question again.
How ETLC Can Help
If your child has trouble answering questions or expressing ideas, a speech-language evaluation can show where to start. Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center has locations in Johnston and North Liberty, IA, with virtual services also available.
Learn more about speech and language therapy at ETLC or schedule a free consultation to talk with a member of our team.
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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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