Tonight with your 13 to 17 year old

The prompt

“Is there a memory of play, just pure play, that still makes you feel like yourself when you think about it?”

What to listen for

If they light up describing a specific memory, that's a core piece of their identity tied to unguarded joy, they need to know that memory is precious, not just nostalgic filler.

If the memory is from years ago and they seem a little sad it's not as easy to access that feeling now, sit with that gently, they need to feel that longing is normal, not something wrong with growing up.

If nothing comes to mind right away, ask about a recent moment that felt similarly free, sometimes it exists in the present, just under a different name.

What this tells you

A memory of pure play shows you the version of themselves they most want to stay connected to as they grow.