Every parent dreads certain phrases. Some examples: Watch me juggle these knives! My head fits perfectly in this lion's mouth! I got a tattoo at Hepatitis Sams!
There's another one that I've come to dread, too: Tell me a story!
It's not that I lack the creative capacity -- I am a writer, for Pete's sake -- it's just that I'm pretty much tapped out by bedtime. I'll read any story that my beloveds ask for. But as for making one up? Oy. I'd just as soon skip it.
I am not alone. The Telegraph came up with some helpful hints and tips for parents struggling to build their own narrative. One that I'd suggest that didn't make their list is to turn to your kid and ask, "what do you think happens next?" You'll be surprised by the answers.
If it still seems to daunting, check out these blankets designed by students at the Royal College of Art. Let your kid read her own dang story while you cuddle up next to her and get some shut-eye.
