Today at group therapy Therapist L talked with the boys about conversation stoppers.  About how you should not answer questions with them.

These are smart aleck answers and one word answers meant to squash conversation on any topic.

Shockingly Middle Boy wanted to discuss it on the way home.  He had told Therapist L he didn't think he used them, but wanted to check with me.

Does he use conversation stoppers?  Yes....almost always.

Instead of getting mad about my response he asked if I could let him know when he does it.  Absolutely.  In what way does he want me to do that?

He is going to think about it.  I am sure that after the first day this will get old for him, but I am giving him the benefit of the doubt.

So...here's to removing conversation stoppers from our communication.