In
this example, Grandpa is being interviewed.
In responding, Grandpa avoids the simple 'yes' or 'no' answer even when
such might suffice. Sure, Grandpa could respond with 'Yes' or 'No' to
'Grandpa, is your first name 'Tom'.' But wouldn't it be more fun if
Grandpa transformed his reply into family lore with 'Yes, it is, and let me
tell you how I got that name. The Sunday after I was born, my Dad
hooked ol' Dobbin to the sleigh to take us all to....' and he's away into
another bit of Lore Americana.
Unless agreed to in advance, questions and answers are serious.
Knowing what a young grandchild likes to talk about is important and
can focus the interview.
Youngsters, though, have minds of their own and might well pop an
unexpected question. Using 'we' or 'us' and encouraging inputs from
Grandchild keeps the interview from becoming one-sided.
Grandchildren pile up their experiences and feelings for an anticipated
interaction, and an interview will provide opportunities to talk about them
and themselves.
Grandpa creates opportunities. For instance, in answering a question, he
closes with: 'That's how it worked out for us; now, how about you? Did
you ever.
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