How to
How to record a parent's stories, starting this week
The regret is always the same: "we meant to". Here is how to start this week, with what you have.
This week, with a phone
Call them. Ask one question from a list. Record the call (with their knowledge; most phones can, or use speaker and a second phone). Ten minutes. Do it again on Thursday.
If they live far away
Send one question a day by text and ask them to reply with a voice note. Older people are better at voice notes than their children think. Save every one.
If they are unwell
Shorter, more often, led by them. Ask what they want people to know. Ask what they would rather leave out. Follow their energy and never push.
What to do with the recordings
Transcribe them (any phone can). Put the transcripts and audio in one place with dates. When you have twenty or more, you have the material for a book; the next guide covers turning them into one.
Start asking: questions to ask for this book.