I was raised on the Brady Bunch television show; one could even go so far as to brand me part of the “Brady Bunch” generation. One of the main things I remember about that program is how Mr. Brady was always using personal stories and platitudes as part of his parenting repertoire. In my own experience as a parent I have learned that sometimes personal stories DO help get a point across or make a connection, other times they either don’t work, or they actually make things worse.
Personal stories can convey empathy and let our children know that we “know where they are coming from.” Stories from our own mythology can also help to get points across that we might not otherwise be able to. But it is important to make sure that the story is appropriate and fits both the situation and the temperament of the child. There are stories and things I can say to one of my children that really don’t have the same affect on the others. One of my children takes things very literally–she doesn’t respond well to abstract stories or clichés–she needs things to be obviously pertaining and make sense in a very basic way. If my stories don’t get right to the point–she turns me out and refuses to listen.
Also, if you ALWAYS turn to stories when you are trying to communicate with your children about important things, they will lose their power and potency. Kids will just start thinking “Oh, here comes another one of those stories” and shut down or tune you out. Like most useful parenting ploys, I think that personal stories should be used judiciously–so that kids actually perk up to listen to them (knowing there might be something good in there and they might want to pay attention.)
Also: Trivia is a Fine Distracter
How Well Does Your Family Communicate?