What Are the Best Bedtime Stories You’ve Come up With for Your Kids?
As someone writing for a living, you might think that I am good at storytelling. But something I learned about myself long ago is that although I am able to write about facts and my own opinions (which I also count as facts), I cannot create works of art. I once tried to write a children’s book called Binky the Bandit , inspired by my then young son, who became famous in kindergarten for stealing pacifiers from other babies. It was as bad as it sounds.
That’s why I get in awe of people who can step back from the script before bed and edit a story on the fly to make it their own, or – ah – tell a completely original story at a simple prompt from a child. I can not do it. I would say: “Well, let’s see … there was a little boy, and he was … in the forest, and …” And then what? I have no idea, and it won’t be interesting.
Paul L. Underwood writes (brags!) For the New York Times that he has done what I never could: he is really good at making bedtime stories for his daughter. He even spoke to some narration experts about why his methods are so good:
Diane Ferlatte has participated in storytelling festivals across five continents and most of the United States, and her 2006 album of Tales of Brother Rabbit was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Children’s Spoken Album. In short, she is a storyteller. Her advice? Use stride, pace, and pause to keep your child on the edge of the seat (or cushion).
“The pauses are very important,” she said. “It lets in curiosity and anxiety.” You can use strategic pauses to give your child a chance to think about what’s next, and then turn the story in unexpected directions. Or just to make sure they pay attention.
Underwood also notes that storytelling should complement reading for your children, not replace it. Ideally, you should combine both, because telling stories without illustrations right in front of them allows children to imagine a story unfolding in their own mind, enhancing their own creativity.
I guess my son never had this opportunity (sorry kid), but the article got me wondering if parents do it regularly – and if so, how? If you’re telling bedtime stories or anytime, tell me in the comments: What themes do you use? Do your kids interfere when you stray too far off course or the story gets too boring? Are they telling you bedtime stories?
Or better yet, tell us your best bedtime story in the comments so other horror storytellers like me can reap the benefits of your creativity. And do not hesitate to tell your kids all about the little rebellious bandit who organized a crime in the nursery of his kindergarten.