Formal- cómo está

Question

On the question:Mamá, ________Why wouldn't "cómo está" be a correct answer? Wouldn't it be formal when speaking to a parent?Thank you!

Accepted Answer

Hola Ashley
it would be very unusual (in Spain) to speak with that formality to a parent, despite them being elderly. It used to be a custom in rural areas in an old fashion way in Spain years ago but it is not nowadays. Very few people maintain that level of formality now. 
Saludos
Inma

Answer

I have heard a spanish-speaker use 'está' with their madre.  I have heard otherwise, as well.  Mexican usage, all, as far as I know.  It might have something to do with context/some mood of respectfulness.  I am not an expert on this, I have just noticed it a small number of times.