Questions to Ask Your Parents

There are stories your parents haven't told you, simply because no one asked. These questions help you capture their life while you still can.

Why ask now

Most people wait too long. The questions we most wish we'd asked tend to occur to us after the chance is gone. Setting aside time to ask, and to record the answers, is one of the most meaningful things a family can do.

Childhood and early life

• What are your earliest memories?
• What was your childhood home like?
• What were your parents and grandparents like?
• What did you want to be when you grew up?

Coming of age

• What were you like as a teenager?
• Who influenced you the most, and how?
• What's a decision that changed the course of your life?

Love and family

• How did you meet your partner?
• What do you remember about the day I was born?
• What was the hardest part of raising children? The best part?

Wisdom and reflection

• What are you most proud of?
• What would you do differently?
• What do you want to be remembered for?
• What advice would you give to your grandchildren?

Capturing the answers

Record these conversations if you can, video or audio preserves not just the words but the voice and expressions. Saving the answers in a shared family memorial or tribute page keeps them safe and lets other relatives add their own questions and memories.