In researching this book I asked a number of people from different backgrounds to tell me the stories of their childhood. They found the process of remembering and sharing insightful and refreshing. Recalling our own childhoods and how it might influence our parenting is useful for all of us to do when we are ready. This exercise provides one way of doing this. It involves writing freely under the headings below and reflecting on your story when it is completed. Referencing your answers to the exercise questions throughout the book can be useful. Read some of the personal stories below.