Storytelling That Sticks
If you’ve ever felt like your words go in one ear and out the other, or like your child tunes out as soon as you say, "Because I said so...", you’re not alone. We live in a world bursting with distractions. Screens are everywhere and attention spans are shorter than ever.
But what if there was a simple, time-tested way to truly connect with your child?
To not just teach them, but inspire them.
To not just talk to them, but reach them?
Welcome to the magical world of family storytelling, and the secret sauce that makes it irresistible: The Three C’s.
What Are the Three C’s of Storytelling?
At The Legendary Connection, we’ve seen again and again how storytelling can become one of the most beloved and requested activities in family life. Why? It’s not just because stories are fun. It’s because they give children what they crave most... connection. It comes through these three elements:
1. Control
Storytelling lets your child participate in the moment.
Whether they’re suggesting what should happen next, asking questions, or helping shape the characters, they’re part of the creative process.
Unlike a TV show or YouTube video, storytelling is flexible and personal. It gives children a voice, and when you respond to their input, they feel heard and valued. That’s powerful.
“When my daughter asked if the dragon in my story could have pink polka dots and be scared of cucumbers, I said yes. Her eyes lit up... she was helping build the story. That dragon became her favorite character for weeks.”
2. Comedy
Let’s be honest, kids love to be silly.
They love ridiculous names, exaggerated voices, gross-out humor, and surprise endings. And when you’re the one telling the story, you can include it all.
You don’t need to be a stand-up comedian. Just be playful.
Add a funny twist. Let your child suggest goofy details.
Make your characters talk in squeaky voices or trip over invisible spaghetti.
Laughter isn’t just fun, it’s bonding. It builds trust, releases tension, and creates joyful memories.
“The louder my kids laugh during a story, the more I know I’ve connected. They'll bring up funny parts of the story for days after we have finished telling it.”
3. Confidants
Here’s where the magic goes deeper.
Storytelling creates an intimate moment.
It’s not recorded. It’s not repeatable. It exists only between you and your child in that moment.
Even if you tell the same story again, the mood, the inflection, the laughter, it will all be a little different. That uniqueness makes it special. It turns you and your child into confidants. You share a secret world together; one built from imagination, emotion, and trust.
In a world that’s always “on,” stories give your child the rare gift of your full attention. And that makes all the difference.
Why It Works (Even If You Don’t Think You’re a Storyteller)
You don’t need to be creative or charismatic to do this. You just need to show up, be present, and start with a simple tale. In our book, Creating Stories Worth Telling Your Kids, we give you everything you need to start; including prompts, examples, and a simple framework that makes storytelling easy and doable.
You’ll also learn:
- Why storytelling helps kids develop empathy, curiosity, and resilience.
- How stories can pass down family values and create lasting traditions.
- How storytelling can benefit you as a parent or grandparent, too.
Because family storytelling is more than entertainment.
It’s a way to say, “I see you. I hear you. I love spending time with you.”
Ready to Create Your Own Legendary Connection?
The “Three C’s” are just the beginning.
When you begin storytelling with your kids, even just once a week, you’ll be amazed by what blossoms: more laughter, more hugs, more insights into who they are and what they feel.
- You don’t need a book to read.
- You don’t need a perfect plot.
- You just need a few minutes, a little imagination, and a willingness to try.
Let us help you take the first step.
Explore Creating Stories Worth Telling Your Kids and discover how storytelling can transform your family time from ordinary to unforgettable.
P.S. Want More Inspiration?
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for bite-sized story sparks and joyful connection ideas. @thelegendaryconnection