Tonight with your 13 to 17 year old

The prompt

“Is there a nickname that actually fits you better than your real name?”

What to listen for

If they have a ready answer, notice the story behind it, who gave it to them and why. That often reveals a relationship or a version of themselves that feels more true or more fun than their everyday self.

If they laugh about it or seem a little proud, that's a good sign they enjoy that part of their identity being seen. If they seem embarrassed, keep your reaction light and not amplified.

If they say no nickname really fits, that's fine, you could ask what they'd nickname themselves if they had to pick one, just for fun.

What this tells you

A nickname they embrace often reveals a side of themselves they feel most comfortable being, especially around people who see them a certain way.