As Nigerian parents living in the UK, we often focus on academic success — maths, English, test scores — and rightly so. But school is more than just books and grades. It’s a place where our children experience friendship, courage, kindness, and sometimes, confusion.
To really understand what our children go through each day — and to build meaningful connections — we need to go beyond the usual “How was school?”
Here are five thoughtful questions that open the door to deeper conversations and give you a window into your child’s world:
💫 1. What Made You Smile Today?
This simple question is like magic. It helps your child focus on the good things, no matter how small. Maybe someone shared their crayons. Maybe their teacher gave them a high five. Or maybe they just enjoyed the spaghetti at lunch.
You’re helping them build a habit of gratitude — something that goes a long way in life. Plus, you get to learn what lights up their world. Is it art? Is it a friend they sit next to? These are the things that matter.
👉 Try asking during the car ride home or while sharing puff-puff and Ribena at snack time.
🦁 2. Did Anything Make You Feel Brave Today?
Let’s be honest — being a kid is no small feat. They face little challenges every day: speaking up in class, trying something new, or standing up for a friend.
When you ask this question, you’re helping your child see their own courage. It tells them: “I see you, I believe in you.”
If they can’t think of anything, help them remember:
“You were brave trying football for the first time, even though you were nervous.”
These small reminders build self-belief, which our kids need to thrive — especially in a new cultural setting.
💛 3. Were You Kind to Someone — or Did Someone Show You Kindness?
Kindness is a value we Nigerians hold dear. When you ask about kindness, you’re teaching your child that how we treat others matters — just as much as their grades.
Maybe they helped a classmate carry their books. Maybe someone invited them to sit at lunch. These are the small stories that show your child is growing not just in knowledge, but in character.
😕 4. Did Anything Feel Unfair or Confusing Today?
This one can be tough — but it’s necessary. School in the UK might come with cultural misunderstandings or feelings of being left out.
Ask your child if anything felt strange. Did a joke feel hurtful? Did they struggle to fit in during group activities?
Give them a safe space to be honest, without judgement. Let them know you’re there — not just to fix things, but to listen.
✨ 5. If You Could Change One Thing About Today, What Would It Be?
Not every day is perfect, and that’s okay. This question encourages reflection — and also imagination.
Maybe your child wishes they didn’t forget their homework. Or maybe they wish the school had a jollof rice day instead of fish fingers! 😄
Whatever they say, it gives you insight into what matters to them and opens up conversations about problem-solving and resilience.
❤️ A Final Word for Naija Parents
Look — your child might not always be in the mood to talk. That’s fine. Don’t push. The goal is not to force deep conversations every day. It’s to show up, be curious, and create a safe space where your child knows you’re listening — with your whole heart.
Next time you pick them up from school, maybe skip the usual “How was school?” and try something fresh.
Because the real learning?
It happens in those precious moments after the school bell rings — in the warmth of your presence, the sound of your voice, and the love of a parent who truly sees them.
✍🏾 Naija UK Connect – Bridging Cultures, Building Stronger Families
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