Tonight with your 13 to 17 year old
The prompt
“Is there a talent you wish you'd started working on earlier?”
What to listen for
A specific answer here often carries a little regret mixed with real desire, that combination usually means it's not too late in their mind, and what they need is encouragement that starting now still counts. Avoid saying "you still can" too quickly; let them get there themselves first.
If they name something unexpected, don't compare it to a sibling's talent or your own, this is about their path, not a family standard.
If they say none, that's fine, some teens are genuinely content with where their skills are focused right now.
What this tells you
This shows you a quiet ambition they're carrying, and whether they currently believe it's still within reach or something they've already written off.