Huskie Wellness - Nov. 14, 2024
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Practicing Deep Curiosity
Curiosity is one of our most powerful tools for building connections with others, including family and friends. The type of curiosity we practice can shape the strength and depth of these relationships. There are two types of curiosity—surface-level curiosity and deep curiosity—and each plays a different role in forming connections. During November's Wellness Workshop, students explored these two types of curiosity and experienced the impact of practicing deep curiosity.
Surface-level curiosity is similar to small talk: it involves asking simple questions to gather basic information, which can help break the ice and lay a foundation for connection. Deep curiosity, however, takes our interactions to a new level. It’s about asking thoughtful questions that encourage others to open up, inviting them to share more about their experiences, feelings, and dreams. This approach builds trust and understanding, leading to stronger, more meaningful connections.
How Parents Can Support Deep Curiosity at Home
To build on this workshop, try asking your teen and other family members some deep curiosity questions during everyday moments—such as in the car, at the dinner table, or on a walk. This can spark deeper conversations and strengthen bonds within your family. By practicing and modeling these deeper conversations, you can also help your teen grow their skills in building meaningful, lasting connections in their own lives.
Sample Deep Curiosity Questions to Try Together
What’s something that made you feel really proud recently?
What are the most important qualities you look for in a friend?
What’s the most interesting class you've taken so far in high school, and why?
If you could go on any adventure tomorrow, what would you choose and why?
Who’s someone you admire, and what do you admire about them?
What’s a goal or dream you’re excited about right now?
What’s something that brought you joy today or recently?
UnPACKing The Truth About Vaping
A common refrain we hear from students is that vapes are “not as bad” as cigarettes or that they help people quit smoking. Through health classes, guest speakers, interactive activities, and informational posters, OPRF strives to educate students on the truth: both smoking and vaping are very harmful. One significant risk of vaping is the high levels of nicotine many products contain, which can make them even more addictive than cigarettes. According to Stanford Medicine, a single JUUL pod contains the nicotine equivalent of 37 cigarettes (almost two packs), while some disposable vapes can contain the equivalent of up to 590 cigarettes.
What Parents Can Do
Engaging with your teen in open, fact-based conversations about the high nicotine levels in vapes can help them understand that both vaping and smoking pose serious health risks. Providing accurate information and addressing common misconceptions about vaping are powerful ways to support your teen in making healthy choices.
You can also talk with your teen about how vaping impacts brain development and can damage the heart and lungs. For more information and tips on talking with your teen about vaping, check out these resources: