Impactful’s “Conversation Starters to Build Trust”

A Guide for Families and Educators

Why Trust Matters

Trust is the foundation of every strong relationship. It means feeling safe, understood, and supported by those around us. For kids, trust isn’t just important—it’s essential. When children trust the adults in their lives, they feel confident to share their thoughts, ask for help, and take healthy risks that help them grow.

As adults, we set the tone. Our actions teach kids what trust looks like and how to build it with others. When we listen without judgment, follow through on promises, and show empathy, we create an environment where trust can thrive.

What Does Modeling Trust Look Like?

To build trust, adults need to show consistency, empathy, and authenticity. Here are a few simple ways to model trust every day:

1. Listen Actively: Give kids your full attention during conversations. Put down your phone or pause other tasks to show them they matter.
2. Follow Through: If you promise to do something—whether it’s helping with homework or showing up to a game—do it. Consistency builds reliability.
3. Admit Mistakes: When you mess up, own it. Apologizing shows kids that making mistakes is okay, and it models accountability.
4. Be Empathetic: Acknowledge their feelings, even if you don’t understand them. Saying, “I see that this is hard for you,” goes a long way.
5. Set Boundaries: Trust grows when expectations are clear. Gently explain your decisions, so kids understand the “why” behind rules or boundaries.

Why Trust is Crucial

Without trust, children may feel isolated or hesitant to share their struggles. But when trust is present:

• They’re more likely to open up about their emotions.
• They build stronger connections with peers and adults.
• They develop resilience and confidence to face challenges.

Trust also strengthens relationships within classrooms and families. Kids who feel safe to share their thoughts are more likely to collaborate, resolve conflicts, and create positive environments.

Conversation Starters to Build Trust

Use these prompts to spark meaningful conversations at home or in the classroom. These open-ended questions encourage sharing, listening, and connection:

For Families:

1. “What was the best part of your day? What made it special?”
2. “Is there anything you’ve been thinking about lately that you want to talk about?”
3. “What’s something that made you feel proud of yourself today?”
4. “Have you ever been scared to tell me something? How can I help make it easier next time?”
5. “If you could change one rule in our house, what would it be and why?”

For Classrooms:

1. “What’s one thing you’re really good at that others might not know?”
2. “When was the last time someone helped you feel better? How did they do it?”
3. “If you could design the perfect school day, what would it look like?”
4. “What’s one way we can make our classroom feel even more supportive for everyone?”
5. “If you had a magic wand, what’s one thing you’d change about the world?”

Tips for Adults Using These Prompts

• Be Patient: Kids may need time to think before answering. Silence is okay.
• Validate Their Feelings: A simple “Thank you for sharing that with me” builds trust.
• Stay Curious: Show genuine interest in their answers by asking follow-up questions.
• Avoid Judging: Focus on understanding, not correcting.

Final Thought

Building trust isn’t about big gestures—it’s about small, consistent actions that show kids they matter. Every conversation is an opportunity to strengthen your connection, foster resilience, and model the kind of trust that will carry them through life.

Want to explore more tools and resources? Check out the latest additions to the Creative Coping Toolkit, our film and evidence-based mental health education program that’s transforming conversations about mental wellness.

To learn more about GiGi & the Creative Coping Toolkit (CCT) our film and evidence based mental health literacy program, Click HERE - 20 mins might change your life.

If you would like to donate to Impactful Fund to support free access to the CCT for underserved schools and communities please click here.