Where, What, Who? Helping Kids Answer Wh- Questions

Learning to ask and answer Wh- questions is an important part of language. 

We use questions to gather information, demonstrate understanding, and engage in conversation.

Young children don’t start using questions all at once. They develop progressively from simple to complex, like other language skills. 

Today, we’ll break down what Wh- questions are, when they develop, why they matter, and how you can help your child practice them at home.

What Are Wh- Questions?

Wh- questions are questions that begin with words like:

  • What: asks about a thing (What is that?)

  • Where: asks about a place (Where is the ball?)

  • When: asks about time (When do we eat?)

  • Who: asks about a person (Who is that?)

  • Why: asks about a reason (Why is she sad?)

  • How: asks about a way or method (How do you open it?)

When do Wh- Questions Develop?

Babies begin responding to questions before they’re using words!

Toddlers as young as 1 - 2 start using gestures such as looking to direct attention, pointing, shaking, or nodding their head to respond to questions.

If you ask your child, “Do you want milk or juice?” and they reach for what they want, they are answering your question!

Here are some Wh- Questions milestones by age (Lanza & Flahive).

1 - 2 years

  • Yes / No (Do you want milk?)

  • Where / person/thing? (Where’s mom?, Where’s your blanket?)

  • What / thing? (What’s this?)

2 - 3 years

  • Answers logical who, what, where questions.

  • Answers simple critical thinking questions, “What do you wear on your feet?”

  • Answers “Can you…?” questions.

3 - 4 years

  • Responds to more complex questions logically, “who”, “why”, “where”, and “how”

  • Answers simple “what… if” questions (If the baby is crying, what would you do?")

  • Answers questions about the function of objects (What are jackets for?, What do you do with a toothbrush?)

4 years

  • Answers “when” questions

  • Answers “how many” questions

Why Are Wh- Questions Important?

Understanding and answering Wh- questions helps children:

  • Follow directions

  • Learn in school

  • Have back-and-forth conversations

  • Tell stories and explain ideas

It’s also a sign that they are growing their comprehension and critical thinking skills.

How to Practice Wh- Questions at Home

During play

  • “Where is the car?” (hide and find)

  • “What does the baby need?”

  • “Who is driving the truck?”

During daily routines

  • “Where are your shoes?”

  • “What do we need for breakfast?”

  • “Who is coming over today?”

While reading books

  • “Where is the dog?”

  • “What is the boy holding?”

  • “Who is in the picture?”

Out and about

  • “Where is the park?”

  • “What do you see?”

  • “Who do you see at the store?”

Tips for Parents

  • Ask one question at a time and use wait time to give your child a chance to think.

  • Model the answer if they’re not sure: “Where’s the ball? The ball is under the table!”

  • Use pictures, gestures, or pointing to help them connect meaning.

  • Keep it fun, no pressure or quizzing.

References

Lanza, J., & Flahive, L. (2008). Guide to communication milestones. East Moline, IL: LinguiSystems.

Lia Kurtin