For parents
The words of the storyteller help us to know ourselves and our heritage, to strengthen our families and community. As parents, we can find little spaces – in the bus or car, while cooking or at the table, before bed or as a homework break – to share a small story.
The range of stories to tell is wide indeed. Here are a few favorite ideas for family telling:
True family stories
Share all the sad, funny, wonderful tales of growing up from your background and from your child’s. For themes and telling hints, see Family Tales.
Your child as hero
Put your child in the starring role in stories that appeal to her and speak to her needs/fears/interests. Ask her ideas as you tell or relate it all yourself.
Your child’s day
A story-account retelling your child's day works well, especially with younger listeners. If your child has imaginary friends, weave them into the tale, too.
Problem/trick tales
As children get older, they enjoy tales wiith a problem to solve, or a trick to figure out. Try some of the stories in Tricksters; pause at the right time and have children solve the story or think up a trick.
Bedtime tales
Some adults create marvelous bedtime tales (see Ideas to Try for some help with storymaking). Others make up continuing tales about favorite characters, or create a story with their children adding to it.
Judge tales
I find that even my teen-age son likes to hear stories about judges; I choose stories of real judges and their cases, since teens often enjoy tales of true heroes.
From judges to ghosts to true tales - there are many wonderful tales to share. Make collections of family favorites, too. Exchange family story greeting cards, create a family storytelling audio or video tape. There is really no end to this world of family storytelling. Have a grand journey.