Hey there. Let’s face it, we've all been there. The classic question, “How was school?” often leads to the classic response: “Fine.” “It was alright.” “Good.” And that's the end of the story. But it doesn't have to be this way.

But here is the thing. Culture and climate do not start and end at school. They also grow at home. The conversations we have with our kids play a crucial role in shaping their confidence, their communication, and their overall connection. As parents, we have the power to influence these aspects. So, here are five powerful strategies that will help you spark real conversations and keep those connections strong.

1. Try the Peak and the Pit

Start simple, but make it meaningful. Ask your kids to share the peak of their day and the pit of their day.

The peak is the best moment, the highlight that made them smile. The pit is the hardest part, the thing that frustrates them or challenges them. By giving them these two prompts, you guide them past the generic “fine” and invite them to think deeper. Trust me, they will often share far more than you expect.

2. Swap Interrogation for Curiosity

Stop going full FBI mode. Firing off a rapid series of yes-or-no questions like:
“Did you finish your homework?”
“Did you talk to your teacher?”
“Did you study?” 

Questions like this shut kids down fast.

Instead, lead with curiosity. Ask open-ended questions like:

• “Who made you laugh today?”
  
• “What surprised you the most?”
  
• “What is one thing you learned that you did not expect?”
  
  

When kids sense genuine curiosity rather than pressure, they open up naturally.

3. Catch Them in the Act

Timing matters as much as the question itself. Don’t always wait for the dinner table stare-down. Kids often share more when they are already engaged in something else. Be mindful of these moments and use them to your advantage.

Try talking while you:

• Drive together in the car
• Cook dinner
• Shoot hoops outside
• Fold laundry
• Take a walk

When the focus is not on them, the pressure disappears and conversations flow more freely.

4. Share Your Story First

Sometimes you need to lead by example. Before asking them about their day, tell them about yours.

Say something like, “I totally messed up in my meeting today,” or “I tried something new at work, and it went better than I thought.” When you open up first, you model vulnerability and trust.

Kids often follow your lead. They see you sharing your ups and downs and feel safer to share theirs.

5. Flip the Script and Let Them Teach You

Kids light up when you give them a chance to become the expert. Pick something they learned that day and ask them to teach it to you.

Questions like:

• “How do you solve that math problem?”
  
• “Show me how you created that drawing.”
  
• “Walk me through what you learned in science today.”
  
  

Not only does this conversation build their confidence, but it also strengthens their connection to learning and to you.

Bonus Tip: Throw in Some Humor

Lighten the mood and make talking fun. Try asking playful, creative questions like:

• “If your day were a movie, what would the title be?”
  
• “Which emoji best describes your math class today?”
  
  

Even if they roll their eyes, they will think about it, and they are far more likely to respond. Humor opens the door to deeper conversations.

Culture and Climate Begin at Home

Healthy communication strengthens the culture of your home, and that flows into everything else, including school. When children feel heard, supported, and valued at home, they bring that confidence into their classrooms, friendships, and learning.

Keep it positive. Keep it light. And, as always, keep Standing Tall.

Engage Students from the Start

The "Ten Minute Classroom Openers" series provides educators with practical and effective tools to set the tone for learning every single day. With the help of my rockstar co-author, Tina Dietrich, each activity is designed to capture student attention quickly and build a positive classroom climate. In ten minutes or less, you can create meaningful interactions that encourage curiosity, spark discussion, and foster collaboration. These openers support educators in building relationships while seamlessly integrating academic and social-emotional goals. The strategies in this series fit any grade level and subject area, making them a valuable resource for every educator.

Build a Strong Classroom Culture

When educators start each class with intentional, engaging activities, they create an environment where students feel connected and ready to learn. The "Ten Minute Classroom Openers" series helps you move beyond routine and cultivate a culture of enthusiasm and participation. Administrators seeking ways to improve student engagement across classrooms will find these openers especially impactful, as they support consistent, schoolwide practices that strengthen climate and culture. Every strategy is designed for immediate use, so educators can see results right away without heavy preparation or added stress. Give your staff the tools they need to inspire students, increase participation, and set a positive tone from bell to bell. Order yours today! 

Does your school just need something different?

When I work with administrators who want professional development that truly aligns with their school or district goals, I focus on creating a customized experience that speaks directly to the needs of their community. I understand that every school has its own unique challenges, priorities, and aspirations, which is why I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach.

My programs can be delivered as a keynote, workshop, professional development session, consultation, or mini session. I carefully design each one to fit the specific goals of your educators and students. My goal is simple: to ensure that the time we spend together directly supports your vision and leads to meaningful, practical outcomes that create lasting impact.

Before I step into your school or district, I collaborate with your leadership team to fully understand your culture, strengths, and needs. If your school needs to strengthen school climate, improve staff collaboration, develop leadership skills, or increase student engagement, I craft presentations and strategies tailored to your team's needs. Every session I deliver provides relevant, actionable tools that educators can start using immediately.

When you bring me in for custom professional development, you get more than just a training session! You get an experience that inspires, equips, and unites your staff. Together, we create the foundation for lasting improvement and a stronger, more connected school community.

It is simple, just visit StandTallSteve.com or email me directly at [email protected] to set up your session. Let’s make professional development purposeful and something your team looks forward to!

Just Do This… Boost Camp

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter

December 2 - 4, 2025

In conjunction with AccuTrain's December 2025 Innovative Schools Summit

I am excited to share that the Just Do This Boot Camp is coming to San Antonio this December. This three-day experience is designed for schools, teams, classroom teachers, educators, and administrators who want to strengthen their culture and climate. During this Boot Camp, I will guide you through practical strategies and powerful ideas that you can implement immediately to elevate your school culture to the next level. If you are concerned about the direction of your culture and climate and understand the critical importance of achieving the outcomes you want, then this is the opportunity you need. Together, we will focus on what works, build momentum, and create a school environment that inspires success for both staff and students. Save your spot! https://www.standtallsteve.com/just-do-this-boostcamp 

Within Our Ranks Retreat

Gang, here’s the truth: most people do not know where to begin or how to grow as a professional, trainer, or consultant. That is why Within Our Ranks exists. We guide educators to become respected speakers, trainers, and consultants. We take your expertise, your voice, and your story, and we give you the tools to share them with impact.

The next three-day retreat will be hosted in San Antonio, Texas, at the Holiday Inn Riverwalk on November 14-16, 2025.  Or you can join us in Orlando, Florida, in February 2026! These retreats give you immersive support, hands-on practice, and access to a powerful community of educator-speakers who support one another.

If you are curious about becoming a speaker, let’s talk. Visit WithinOurRanks.com, where you can learn more about the program and register for one of our community events (next meeting October 30). Schedule a discovery call with Meg to discuss your goals and how the program can help you achieve them.

We are proud to announce that this episode is sponsored by Within Our Ranks, a dynamic program created for teachers and administrators who want to become educational speakers, trainers, or consultants. If you have a voice, message, or passion to share beyond the walls of your classroom or school, this is the program for you.

Want to lead breakout sessions, keynotes, or create impactful professional development? You do not need to figure it out alone. Join a supportive network of educators who share your passion for growth, service, and inspiration. Founded by an NSA Certified Professional Speaker, Within Our Ranks provides expert guidance, community, and real opportunities to help you step confidently into the world of educational consulting with the guidance of coaches and me. Participants refine their message, grow their speaking skills, and learn the business side of becoming a professional educator or speaker beyond the classroom.