Things You'll Need:
- Writing materials and/or computer
- Tape recorder or video camera (optional)
- Family photos (optional)
- An open mind
- Good listening skills
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Step 1
When your child has had a significant experience or when viewing family photos, sit down together in a quiet place and ask her to tell you the story. Explain that you will be writing it down exactly as he says.
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Step 2
Say something like “That was a really important/surprising/sad/funny thing that happened. Can you tell me about it?” or “Who are the people in this photo and what are they doing?” Encourage the child's imagination.
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Step 3
Write down verbatim what the child says. Write the narrative even if it's illogical or disconnected. Ask the child to repeat when necessary so you can get it all down. Give more prompts like “What did you do then?” and “Why did that happen?” Older children can decide how much editing they want to do with your assistance.
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Step 4
Read back what you wrote. Ask him if that’s what he wanted to say. Make any changes.
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Step 5
Ask her how she wants the final version to appear: printed on the computer or hand-written. Give him the opportunity to illustrate it with crayons or markers.
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Step 6
Write her name and the date so there will be a permanent record.
