Stories are found in every part of our lives. We start children off with stories. We tell them stories of fairytales and of heroes. We build stories around princes and princesses. We tell stories to get our points across. Even the bible is filled with stories. We tell true stories and we make up stories. Stories are all around us. Every page of our lives is another part of a longer story. What’s the value of all of these stories? 

Stories over time give perspective. Share on X

We tell these stories to our children to help them gain perspective. The principle of stories over time help us gain perspective is actually a fun one. We remember stories way better than life principles. Laws and rules are good and all and they’re even important, but they’re not all that memorable. When telling someone about our plans for the future we nestle it in a story. Stories are memorable. They’re fun. They draw you in. A good story will stick with you.

This is why stories over time give perspective, because they stick. As parents our goal is to lead our children to develop their life story. We share family stories that provide an anchor for who we are and how we live. Stories shape so much of our lives.

What sorties are you sharing with your children? Not just the ones you read before bedtime but life stories about who you see your children becoming? How do stories shape your parenting? How do you use stories to share meaningful moments?

Here are a couple of ways to share stories with your children.

  • Literally read them a story. Nighttime is a great time to read stories.
  • Write a story with them. Try starting the story and letting them add to it. Work on if for a little bit and then pick it up again another day. Add to your family story often.
  • Try to explain the why behind your rules using stories. What might go wrong if this rule isn’t followed? What will go right if they do follow them?
  • Describe the future. Take some time to help your children think about their future. Use story to describe what they’ll see, hear, feel and do as they grow up.

The bible tells us to train up a child in the way he should go and he will not stray far from it.

This is the principle of stories over time give perspective. When our children get older and leave the home, they’ll remember the stories we’ve shared. When they move away to college and are faced with situations that call for discernment and good judgment, they may not remember our rules but they will remember our stories.

Tell stories. Read stories. But more importantly, live these stories with your children!