It's an easy game to play at home and can be adapted to lots of different topics.
1. Become detectives
Ask your child what detectives do and how they use clues to find things out.
Explain that you're both going to become detectives and learn more about each other.
2. Start with a question
Ask your child:
"What's your favourite cake and why?"
Encourage them to give a reason rather than just naming the cake.
3. Give an example
You could start by giving your own answer, for example:
"My favourite cake is chocolate cake because it's sweet, rich and feels like a special treat."
4. Add more detail
Encourage your child to describe their answer in more detail.
You could ask questions such as:
What does it taste like?
When do you like eating it?
What makes it your favourite?
Does it remind you of anything?
5. Swap roles
Let your child become the detective and ask you the same question.
You can then take turns asking each other about different favourites.
Children often find giving reasons more difficult than simply answering a question, so encourage them gently to expand their ideas. The detective theme keeps the exercise playful while helping children develop stronger speaking and reasoning skills.
Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.
