Stories create a gentler, more effective way to shift a child's attention than simply announcing, "it's time to clean up."

When we draw a child's imagination and creativity into the chore that needs attention, we give them a way to bring their play and excitement into the activity. In other words, stories open a door instead of closing one. Even better, they give us a creative framework to build a feeling of connection and mutual participation.

This can save parents a lot of unnecessary stress, time, and energy.