10 Conversation Starters That Actually Get Your Teenage Son Talking
Stop the one-word answers. Start real conversations in 10 seconds.
Because ‘fine’ isn’t enough when you’re worried.
Grab our free, therapist-crafted PDF: 10 Conversation Starters That Actually Get Your Teenage Son Talking—plus a printable tracker to keep the momentum going.
You’re not a “Bad Mom.” Teenage brains are wired to clam up.
Between hormones, homework, and the hunt for independence, boys often retreat into one-word answers. The silence can feel personal—but it isn’t. You just need doorways that feel safe to him. That’s exactly what this guide delivers.
What’s Inside
10 Starters with explanations, follow ups, and scenarios
Daily Conversation Tracker: learn what works and what gets the dreaded eyeroll
FAQ for when he still won’t talk and what to do
Bonus situational scripts
We know how quickly “How was school?” can turn into “Fine.” We also know that behind a one-word answer there’s usually a story waiting for the right doorway. These prompts were road-tested in our therapy rooms and in our own homes. Use them, tweak them, share them. When small talk feels impossible, let this guide be your cheat-sheet to bigger connection.
About Dawn Therapy & Wellness Centre
Canada-Wide Specialists in Actually Reaching Teen Boys
We’re not the “sit on a stiff couch and spill your guts” type. Sessions here are casual, human, and real—sweats, sarcasm, and swearing welcome. From anger spikes to post-practice slumps, our team helps boys & young men (and their parents) move from shutdown to openness.
Serving families across Canada with evening, weekend, and secure virtual appointments. Fully covered sessions available for Indigenous youth with Status cards.
Dawn Therapy & Wellness Centre provides evidence-based counselling for teen boys, young men, and families across Canada. Our specialties include anger management, anxiety treatment, depression counseling, identity exploration, cultural connection, and parent-teen communication coaching. In-person sessions in Port Perry, ON (Durham Region) and fully secure virtual therapy Canada-wide.
A parent who has been there
“I tried Starter #2 in the car and my son ended up talking about school for ten straight minutes. That hasn’t happened in months.”
—Heather R., Canadian mom of a 15-year-old
Our Values
Realness
Come as you are. You don’t need to “perform” here.
Connection
Healing is a shared process—between therapist and client, and among families and cultures.
Purpose
We’re here to help you figure out what’s next—not just process what’s behind you.
Download the Guide—Start a Real Conversation Tonight
Let’s Talk
Not sure where to begin? That’s okay. We’ll help you take the first step.
We know reaching out can feel like a big step. Use the form below to ask a question, book a free consult, or just say hi. We’ll get back to you within 2 business days.
We offer evenings and weekends!
Tuesday 1–7 p.m
Wednesday 1–7 p.m
Thursday 12:45–7 p.m
Friday 11 a.m.–5 p.m
Saturday 11 a.m.–5 p.m
(289) 943-7095
22250 Island Rd, Port Perry, ON L9L 1B6