16 Great Questions to Engage Youth​

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💡 Want to Hear What Youth Really Think?

I’ve forever been a fan of the great ideas youth have.  Engaging young people in meaningful conversations helps you understand their perspectives, supports their development, and builds trust. Whether you’re a teacher, coach, mentor, or youth leader, asking the right questions can help you connect and create an environment where they feel valued and heard. 

Here are 15 thoughtful questions designed to engage youth:

1. How Do You Feel About School or Activities?

  • What’s something you enjoy most about your school or extracurricular activities?
  • If you could change one thing about your school or club, what would it be?

2. Building Connections

  • What’s something you’re really passionate about right now?
  • Can you name someone in your life who inspires or supports you? How do they do that?

3. Developing Leadership and Ownership

  • What’s one idea you have to make your community or school a better place?
  • If you could lead a project or event, what would it be about?

4. Exploring Youth Aspirations and Goals

  • What’s something new you’d like to learn or try this year?
  • How do you think adults can better help you achieve your goals?

5. Understanding Well-being

  • How do you usually feel at the end of a school day?
  • What’s one thing that makes you feel happy or calm when you’re stressed?

6. Enhancing Belonging and Inclusion

  • Do you feel like you belong at school or in your community? Why or why not?
  • What can we do to make everyone feel included?

7. Engaging Youth

  • What’s something you wish adults would ask you more often?
  • If you could give advice to teachers or leaders, what would it be?

8. Celebrating Achievements

  • What’s a recent accomplishment you’re proud of?
  • Who is someone you’d like to thank for helping you succeed?

Why These Questions Matter

Youth often thrive in environments where they feel heard and empowered. These questions:

  • Encourage self-reflection and personal growth.
  • Build trust and deepen connections with adults and peers.
  • Offer valuable insights to improve schools, organizations, and communities.

     

Regularly incorporate these questions into Pulse Checks, surveys, group discussions, or your other organization or community listening strategies. 

👋 Ready to Engage Youth More Effectively?

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