In the book "House Rules" by Jodi Picoult, the author emphasizes the importance of how questions are framed when interacting with children. Open-ended questions can lead to unwanted answers, especially in situations like bedtime. For instance, asking a child if they want to go to bed might not yield the response a parent desires, which can lead to frustration.

Instead, it's advised to present options that guide the child towards the desired outcome while allowing them to feel a sense of agency. By offering choices such as whether they would prefer to be carried or to walk upstairs, parents can achieve a smoother transition while still empowering their children in the decision-making process.