Tonight with your 9 to 12 year old
The prompt
“If you could invent something that doesn't exist yet, what would you make?”
What to listen for
An imaginative, detailed invention shows a mind that's actively problem-solving, even in play, notice whether it solves a real annoyance in their life or is pure fantasy, both are telling.
If the invention is meant to help someone else (a sibling, a friend, a pet), that reveals a generous, caring streak worth naming and praising directly.
If they say they can't think of anything, that's fine, ask what small daily annoyance they wish would just disappear, which often sparks an idea.
What this tells you
This shows you how your child's imagination solves problems when nothing is holding it back.