Tonight with your 5 to 8 year old

The prompt

“What's the fairest way you can think of to decide who picks the show tonight?”

What to listen for

If they suggest something that takes turns or rotates fairly (like a schedule or rock-paper-scissors), that shows they're building real understanding that fairness isn't the same as getting their own way, a great sign of growing maturity. If their answer conveniently favors themselves every time, that's completely normal for this age; just gently ask "would that still feel fair if it wasn't your turn?"

Listen for whether they mention age, mood, or "who had a hard day" as a factor, that shows early empathy, thinking about what someone else might need, not just what's equal on paper.

If they say "I don't know," offer two options (take turns by day, or draw names) and see which one they gravitate toward.

What this tells you

Their idea of fairness right now shows whether they're starting to think about everyone's needs, or still mostly their own, both are normal stages.