#5 Ask about his day.

It sounds so obvious... Ask about your child's day.

But how many times do you find yourself asking the babysitter how much the kids ate, if they took a bath, or if there were any problems? Or when you pick them up from Grandma's, do you ask HER if they behaved and what they did together?

Those are the types of things your child could be telling you. Ask your child! It will improve his expressive language skills and build confidence in his ability to communicate when he's able to answer your questions. Yes, questions (plural)! Not just one general question: How was your day at Grandma's? Besides being too general, it could also leave you with a one-word answer. Try using open-ended questions that will lead to conversation.

What was the best thing you did at Grandma's?
What was the funniest thing Grandpa said?
How did you help Daddy today?
What did you eat for lunch?
Who else did you see today?
Where did you get to go to today?
Who did you play with at recess?
What did Aunt Anita do when ____?
What did your teacher say when _____?
What's one thing you learned at school today?
Why are you you sad?
How did that make you feel?
What did you do with your friends today?
Where did you get your bracelet? (refer to photo above)

Ask one question at a time, and give him your undivided attention when he responds. Follow up with a related question and keep the conversation going. Back and forth, taking turns talking about his day.

You'll learn alot about your child, from what HE says. And if he's unable to give you enough information, given lots of prompting and prodding, then go ahead and get the information you need from his teacher or Grandma or whoever. But start with your child.