Tonight with your 9 to 12 year old

The prompt

“What's something you're weirdly good at that surprises people when they find out?”

What to listen for

If they answer with pride, they know and value a strength that isn't the obvious one everyone already praises, that's a sign of a well-rounded sense of self.

If they seem unsure or say nothing comes to mind, offer up something you've noticed, sometimes a kid's quiet talents go unnamed until an adult points them out.

If they mention something unusual or non-traditional, celebrate it fully, those are often the strengths kids are most afraid won't be seen as "real" talents.

What this tells you

This tells you about a strength they hold onto for themselves, separate from whatever they're already known for.