bedtime_1Stories at bedtime make for a great bonding ritual. Chances are you have some favorite books you and your child like to read. But have you ever thought of making up your own story together? This is a wonderful exercise that encourages creativity. It can also help offer new perspective on real problems, and give you a glimpse of your child’s hopes and dreams. Here are a few hints for bedtime storytelling:

– Let your child determine the setting and the beginning of the plot line. Then you weave a story for them. As you go along, continue asking for additional elements – obstacles to be overcome, helpers to join the protagonist.

– Start the story yourself by introducing the conflict/problem, and ask your child to tell the ending (which, of course, will be a happy one).

– Create a story where your child is the hero/heroine. You be the narrator, and allow your child to tell the hero’s actions in first person. (Watch the classic storytelling movie The Princess Bride for ideas on how to flow in and out from narrator to first person.)

– Start a story one night, and continue adding to it every night after that. You can switch off whose turn it is to continue the story.

– One idea for a story is to problem solve an issue from your child’s day using a fictional character who experiences the same problem. Make the outcome as fantastical as you like (magical wizards, superpowers, etc.).

Suggested story starters:

– “Once upon a time in the kingdom of [your town], there lived a young prince/princess named [your child’s name]. The land was a happy one that lacked nothing except …”

– “If [your child’s name] knew one thing, it was this…”

– “It was [protagonist]’s birthday and the last thing he/she expected was…”

Or, use one of these classic first lines from children’s books to start your story:

– “All children, except one, grow up.” – Peter Pan

– “‘Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents,’ grumbled [name], lying on the rug.” – Little Women.

– “It was [name] who first told me about them.” – The Borrowers

Creating your own story together will make bedtime more fun for both of you.