Car Conversation: Good Post-RE Questions

After RE classes have ended, you have a perfect opportunity to talk to your children about RE.  Following up will reinforce what they learned because it gives them an opportunity to articulate their faith in terms they know and use.  We'll take a look below at how to rephrase two common questions, and give you two more good questions to ask your child.

Rephrase Common Questions

• "How was class today?"  This question has a very limited answer range and doesn't invite children to give a good response.  Instead, try asking for something concrete: "What was your favorite part of class?"  They'll have an opportunity to pause and replay class in their mind before giving you an answer.  Give them time to respond, and make sure to ask all your kids.
• Potential follow up: "Why was it your favorite part?"
• "What did you learn about?"  Many children will answer this question with "God" or "Jesus" or something along those lines.  There answer isn't wrong, but probably isn't want you hoped for.  Try asking: "Tell me about what you learned?"  This question invites a much more thought out response.  Instead of answering a question, they can tell a story.
• Potential follow up: "Tell me more!"

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Ask Good Questions

• "What did you learn that you can use right away?"  Our faith is nothing if not practical.  The wonderful thing about the textbook series used in Grades 1-6 at St. Mark is the emphasis on discipleship, on living out the lessons learned.  Encourage your child to think about those lessons and to talk about how they, and the whole family, can put faith into action.
• "What could you teach me that you learned today?"  When we teach others, we truly learn things for ourselves.  Give that gift to your children.  Allow them to teach you.  The gift of faith many children have is astounding.

Which ever questions you choose to ask, ask them every week.  Don't let the opportunity to talk to your children about faith pass you by.

Do you have any questions you ask your child after RE class?  Share them with us.