Perhaps like the little old woman who lived in a shoe, you had so many children you didn’t know what to do. Or perhaps you parented an only child. Whatever the case, children transform your life. Children create stories.

The following questions trigger memories, and memories trigger stories—many stories. You might write one story about each question. Or you might combine numerous questions into a single story.

Take your time. Reflect. Then write. You will be amazed by how easy and fun it is to tell stories about your children.

List your children, including stepchildren.

Are your children’s names family names? Who are they named after? Why did you select their names?

Add your children’s birth dates, when and where they were born, and anything unusual about their births.

Were any of your children adopted?  What do you want your adopted children to know about their birth parents? What do you want your adopted children to know about their adoption?

Describe how you felt when you knew you were going to be a parent.

Tell a story about the first time you saw each child. What did you feel? What did you think? What did you do—say pass out cigars or send flowers?

Who was the first person you called to share the good news.

Tell a story about each child when he/she was a baby.

Tell sibling rivalry stories.

Did you have a pet when your first child was born? How did you introduce your pet to your brand-new baby? Tell a story about your pet’s reaction to competing for attention. Tell a story about your pet (probably a dog!)  protecting your children.  

Add a picture of each child and tell a special story about him/her.

Tell a funny story about each of your children.

Tell a poignant story about each of your children.

Tell stories about your children “rebelling” as teenagers. What happened? What did you do? What did they do?

Tell stories about family traditions you developed with your children.

Why are you proud of each child? Tell a story that demonstrates that pride.

What joys do you associate with parenthood? Tell a story that demonstrates that joy.

What challenges do you associate with parenthood? Tell a story that demonstrates those challenges.

What advice do you have for your children?

What hopes do you have for your children?

What do you hope your children remember about you? Why?

Share your stories with your children.

Ask them what family stories they want you to include in your estate wellness plan.