Just checking in: “Hey, welcome home! Come tell me about your day when you feel up to talking.” “Did you have science class today? What did you guys do?” “What was the best part of your day?” “It’s almost winter break, right? Have you guys been doing anything fun in class to get ready for it?” When it seems like something is wrong: “It seems like you’re upset. Do you want me to try and guess what’s the matter?” “It’s OK if you don’t want to talk now. I’ll be in the kitchen making dinner, so if you decide you want to tell me about anything later, you know where to find me.” “I remember last week you said that Todd was acting a little weird at school. How’s everything going now?” “Whatever’s going on in your life and no matter how old you are, you know you can always talk to me about it.” “I’m sorry school’s been a little rough lately. I love you so much, and whenever you’re ready to talk about it, I’m here.”