Introductory paragraph: Starting conversations with teenagers can be difficult as they may find certain topics awkward or embarrassing, but there are many ways to find common ground and initiate a meaningful conversation. Here are 20 ideas for conversation starters with teenagers that can get the conversation flowing.
1. What TV show are you currently watching? – This is an easy way to ask for their opinion on the show, as well as discovering what type of programming they like to watch.
2. Who is your favorite artist? – Music is universal and a great way to relate to one another, and talking about favorite artists can lead to conversations about particular songs they like and why they like them.
3. What was the last movie you saw? – Asking this question can help identify their interests in particular genres of films and why they take particular interests in them.
4. What would be your dream job? – Getting someone to talk about their aspirations can open them up to talking about their goals and what they are doing to achieve them.
5. What apps do you have on your phone? – This question can show you what teens are using for entertainment and what devices they are using for communication.
6. What hobbies do you have? – Finding out what someone likes to do in their free time can help uncover common interests, as well as giving you good topics to discuss later.
7. What have been some of your biggest life moments so far? – Everyone has unique memories and experiences, so asking about these can start meaningful conversations.
8. What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given? – It can give insight into their life and outlook on things, while providing meaningful advice to possibly apply to their life.
9. Are there any local events or attractions that you like to go to? – This can help figure out if there is something the two of you can do together, while learning what kind of places they like to go to.
10. What is your favorite sports team and why? – Sports fandom can lead to passionate conversations and it is usually a great source of common ground.
11. What are your thoughts on current events? – This is a great way to start a discussion on serious topics while exercising critical thinking.
12. What do you do to relax? – Knowing someone’s go-to to relax can provide good ideas on how to stay productive, whilst learning from each other.
13. Are there any challenges that you are currently facing? – Asking this shows you care about them, as well as being a mutual source of support.
14. What type of music do you usually listen to? – Music often has a personal connection, so asking about this can open up conversations about likes, hobbies, and experiences.
15. If money was no problem, what would be your dream vacation spot? – Asking this can lead to discovering their values and interests, as well as helping to form a personal relationship.
16. What are some goals you would like to accomplish in the next year? – This can show their motivation to work towards something and what real-world implications their decisions will have.
17. What have you been learning at school lately? – Learning about their current studies can offer a unique insight into their interests and minds.
18. What type of books do you like to read? – Asking this can lead to productive conversations about certain storylines, themes, characters, and more.
19. Are there any causes or social movements you are interested in? – Showing interest in what matters to them signals your support and validates their feelings.
20. Who do you most admire and look up to? – Asking this can lead to motiviting conversations and provide someone with assurance of acceptance and approval.