How to Talk to Boys
#1 More Conversation Starters
"I’m trying to decide between [two options for a snack/drink]. Which one do you think is better?"
Asking for his opinion on a simple choice can engage him and make him feel helpful, opening the door for more conversation.
"My friend told me this [game/app/song] is awesome. Have you tried it?"
Referencing something a friend recommended makes it sound less like you're randomly approaching him and more like you're seeking advice or confirmation.
"That’s a big [book/graphic novel/comic book]! What are you reading?"
Commenting on something he's reading or carrying can lead to a conversation about his interests or even a recommendation exchange.
"That's a cool [drawing/doodle] you’re doing. Are you an artist?"
If you see him drawing or creating, complimenting his work is a thoughtful way to show interest and can open up a conversation about his talents and passions.
"Hey, I really like your [band t-shirt/backpack/shoes]! Where did you get it?"
This is a great, low-pressure opener. Complimenting something he's wearing that expresses his interests shows you've noticed him and can lead to a discussion about shared hobbies or styles.
"Hey, is that the new [game console/phone]? How do you like it?"
If he has a new tech gadget, showing interest in it can be a good way to get him talking about something he's probably excited about.
"This [coffee shop/park/arcade] is usually so [quiet/busy]! What do you usually get here?"
Commenting on the environment you're both in can open up a conversation about favorite spots or habits.
"Wow, you finish your [food] so fast! Are you always that hungry?"
A slightly flirty and playful observation about something casual he's doing can be disarming and lead to a lighthearted conversation.
"Sorry, do you know where the [restrooms/checkout/specific store] is? I’m still kind of new around here."
Pretending to be new or a bit lost, even if you're not, can elicit help and create an opportunity for him to show you around or give directions.
"Hey, I heard [news about a local event/new store opening]. Are you going to check it out?"
Referencing a piece of local news or an upcoming event can be a natural way to engage him in a discussion about things happening in your community.
"Do you know where they sell [specific snack/drink] around here? I'm starving!"
A direct question about food or drinks in a casual setting can be relatable and lead to suggestions or even an offer to get something together.
"Oh my gosh, is that [new video game]? I’ve been wanting to try that out!"
If he's actively engaged with a popular interest, reacting with genuine curiosity is a strong starting point. It provides an immediate, clear topic to talk about.
"This [weather] is crazy, right? Are you doing anything fun today?"
Commenting on shared environmental factors like the weather can be a simple, universal icebreaker that can lead to talking about plans.
"You seem to know your way around this [place]. Do you come here often?"
A bit more direct, this acknowledges his familiarity with the location and invites him to share more about himself.
"I saw you at [the skate park/the concert/the game] last week! You were [description of something he did]."
Recalling seeing him at a past event shows you've noticed him and can lead to a conversation about shared experiences outside of school.
"You’re pretty good at [sport he's playing/video game he's playing]. Do you play often?"
Observing his skills in an activity he's engaged in allows for a genuine compliment and opens the door to discussing his hobbies.
"That’s a [cool/funny] sound your [bag/phone] just made! What was that?"
Reacting to an unexpected sound or object he has can be a fun and lighthearted way to start a conversation, showing you're observant.
"Oh my gosh, is that [name of a popular celebrity/song/movie]? You have good taste!"
If you recognize something he's listening to or looking at that's culturally relevant, it shows you have similar interests and can spark a deeper discussion.
"(Drop pen near him) Oh, shoot! Could you grab that for me? Thanks!"
A simple, intentional action that requires his help is a low-pressure way to get his attention and initiate a quick exchange of words.
"Sorry, do you know when the next [bus/train] comes? I think I missed mine."
A practical question in a public setting is a simple, direct way to initiate contact. It requires a straightforward answer and can naturally lead to follow-up questions.
"Hey, is your [phone/laptop] having trouble connecting to the Wi-Fi too?"
Using a shared technical issue in a public place like a coffee shop or library can create an immediate common problem to discuss.
"(Smile and hold eye contact for a moment, then look away shyly when he notices)"
A non-verbal cue that lets him know you've noticed him and are potentially interested, inviting him to initiate. This is higher risk as it relies on his initiative.
"Excuse me, is this [seat] taken? (point to an empty seat nearby)"
A classic and effective low-risk opener. It immediately puts you in his proximity and is direct, allowing for easy expansion if he's open to talking.
"(Pretend to trip slightly near him) Whoa! Almost wiped out there. Are you okay?"
A controlled, minor 'accident' can draw his attention and create a moment for interaction, prompting him to ask if you're alright.