How to Tell a Bedtime Story

They've brushed their teeth, put on their pajamas and gotten into bed, but before they can have sweet dreams they need a good bedtime story. Telling the story isn't too hard. It just takes some imagination, a little time and maybe some funny-sounding voices.

Things You'll Need

• Imagination

Instructions

1. Tuck your little (or big) one into bed and lower the lights to create a quiet environment.

2. Ask your child what kind of story they'd like to hear. Ask who they want the story to be about and where the story should be set. Letting them help create the story not only makes it more interactive, but also broadens their imaginations.

3. Start telling the story. It doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, the more basic your storyline, the better. You can begin with "Once upon a time" or not. It's up to you.

4. Give your child the chance to create the story with you. Instead of deciding where the pirate will go next, let your child fill in the blank for you. This will help you develop the story and will keep your child involved. Remember, even if they decide the pirate is going to buy a pair of cowboy boots from Santa, it's okay. Go with it and just have fun.

5. End your bedtime story with your characters going home and going to sleep, safely in their beds.

Tips & Warnings

• If your child is too young to participate actively in developing the storyline, create a story that involves what the child did that day. Set the events in a fantasy world and make your child the hero.

• Try to create a sense of familiarity in the story. Give the characters personalities that mimic those in the child's life. The more the child can relate to the characters and what they're doing, the more they will enjoy the story.

• Finish the story before your child falls asleep. It's frustrating for them to miss the story they've helped create. If you notice them drifting off to sleep, quickly bring the story to a close.

• Don't make the plot too scary. Some children really enjoy scary stories, but bedtime isn't the best time for those. Scary things can happen in the story, but the overall tone should not be frightening.

• Don't ignore your child's feedback. Every moment is a moment to teach. Answer their questions and weave the answers into your story.