← Answering a Why · Lesson 1 of 5
Answer the why that was asked
Children keep asking when an answer does not answer. In one study, preschoolers asked again when they got a non-answer, and were more satisfied when they got a real explanation (Frazier, Gelman & Wellman, 2009).
A real answer gives a reason. It can be short. It can even be “I don’t know — let’s find out.” What does not work is a reply that closes the question without a reason: “because it is”, or praise for asking.
A child asks, “Why is the sky blue?” Which reply answers the why that was asked?
A lesson is kept once you've answered the question and written at least 8 words. Nobody grades it; it stays on this device.