Tonight with your 9 to 12 year old
The prompt
“Is there a talent you wish you had, even one that seems totally random?”
What to listen for
If they answer easily and with enthusiasm, they're comfortable admitting what they want without embarrassment, a sign they feel safe wanting things out loud.
If they seem hesitant or self-conscious, they may worry that wanting something they don't have yet reflects badly on them, reassure them that wishing is not the same as lacking.
If they say they don't wish for any talent, they might already feel satisfied with themselves, which is worth quietly appreciating.
What this tells you
This shows you what capabilities they admire in others and quietly wish were part of who they are.