Tonight with your 9 to 12 year old
The prompt
“Is there a dream vacation you've thought about but never actually told anyone?”
What to listen for
If they share something specific and a little unexpected, they're trusting you with a private wish, which is a quiet but real sign of closeness.
If they seem surprised you asked or say they've never thought about it, that's a fine invitation to dream together right now rather than digging for a pre-made answer.
If they mention wanting to go somewhere with a specific person, notice who that is, it can reveal who they most want to share big experiences with.
What this tells you
This shows you a piece of their private wishing, and who they picture being there when good things happen.