25 questions to ask your dad
Most dads have stories they’ve never told, simply because nobody asked the right question. Pick one or two for your next phone call, a long drive, or a quiet evening on the porch. Listen more than you talk, and if a question lands on something tender, give it room.
Growing up
- 1.What’s your earliest memory?
- 2.What was the house you grew up in like? Which room do you remember most?
- 3.Who was your best friend as a kid, and what trouble did you get into together?
- 4.What did your parents do for work, and what did you learn from watching them?
- 5.What was something you were scared of as a kid?
Becoming himself
- 6.What was your first job, and how much did it pay?
- 7.Tell me about your first car.
- 8.What music were you listening to when you were 18?
- 9.Was there a moment you realized you were an adult?
- 10.Who was a teacher, coach, or boss who changed the way you saw things?
Love and family
- 11.How did you meet Mom (or the love of your life)? What did you notice first?
- 12.What do you remember about the day I was born?
- 13.What surprised you most about being a dad?
- 14.What’s a family tradition you hope we keep going?
- 15.Is there a family story you think we’ve gotten wrong?
Work and lessons
- 16.What work are you proudest of?
- 17.What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given?
- 18.What’s a mistake that taught you something you still use?
- 19.What’s something you know how to do that you wish more people knew?
- 20.When was a time you had to be brave?
Looking back, looking ahead
- 21.What’s a day you’d love to live again?
- 22.What makes you laugh every single time?
- 23.What do you hope your grandkids know about you?
- 24.Is there anything you’ve always wanted to tell me but haven’t?
- 25.What does a perfect Sunday look like to you?
Keep his answers, in his own voice
Give Dad an Afterlife Album. He can answer questions like these by writing a few lines or recording his voice, add photos, and leave notes for the people he loves. You can download the whole album anytime.
Want to see one first? Look inside an example album.
More conversation starters
Questions? We’re here.
Call 714-559-4979 or email memories@afterlifealbum.com