Tonight with your 13 to 17 year old
The prompt
“Is there a prank or inside joke from a while back that still makes you smile just thinking about it?”
What to listen for
If they light up recounting it, that memory represents a moment of real, easy belonging with whoever was involved, a sign they crave and cherish that kind of unguarded fun.
If they tell it with a mix of laughter and nostalgia, especially if the people involved aren't as close anymore, gently notice that without turning it into a bigger conversation than they intend.
Even a small, silly memory deserves a genuine laugh from you, don't rush past it to something more "substantial."
What this tells you
Which memory they reach for shows you what kind of shared joy and belonging has stuck with them most.