Keeping Conversations Going

Let's Do This

When conversations with young people stall or feel uninteresting, here are a few ways to keep them going:

• Switch topics when the energy dips
• Ask open-ended instead of yes/no questions
• Circle back to something they mentioned earlier
• Share a personal story or light humor

 Here's a few direct questions you can ask:

• “What’s the most interesting thing you’ve read or watched lately?”
• “What’s something you’re grateful for today?”
• “If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be?”
• “What’s one skill you’d like to learn someday?”

Stay Inspired

Every conversation has the potential to create connection. Even when things feel quiet or awkward, it’s often just the pause before something meaningful emerges. Keep your curiosity alive, lean in with empathy, and trust that the silence is simply the space for the next connection. For fast-acting conversation starters, read this article from Verywell Mind.