10 Questions to Ask a 10-Year-Old About Animals

Conversation questions we've tested with actual 10-year-olds about animals. Use them at dinner, bedtime, or on the drive home. Each one is age-tested so it lands — not too simple, not too abstract.

1. If you could be an animal researcher, what would you study?
2. Do you think humans are the smartest species on Earth? Why?
3. Which is more impressive — an ant colony or a beehive? Why?
4. Should pets be considered family members? Why?
5. If all the dogs in the world agreed on one rule, what would it be?
6. Which animal would make the best leader of a country?
7. Why do you think some animals sacrifice themselves for their group?
8. What's an animal story that really stuck with you?
9. Do you think fish feel pain the way we do?
10. Which animal's lifestyle would you trade yours for, just for a week?