As a parent, it’s natural to be puzzled by what your child creates when left to their own devices. Over time, independent play can transform a room of ordinary toys into a fantastical adventure. In The Tomato Sauce Dragon , a child’s imagination turns a dragon toy and a bottle of tomato sauce into a sprawling “city” covered in sauce. A world that makes perfect sense to them, even if it surprises adults. Children don’t set out to create chaos. They’re exploring, experimenting, and exercising independence. Stories like The Tomato Sauce Dragon give parents a window into that imaginative world and a chance to understand the logic and joy behind it. How independent play empowers children From the first page, The Tomato Sauce Dragon immerses readers in the child’s imaginative perspective. The dragon follows the child’s lead, asking what colour to be and what to spit. The child chooses tomato sauce, and the adventure unfolds exactly as they imagine. This is a powerful moment: the child is in control of the story, directing the dragon and shaping the world around them. It’s a celebration of independent play, curiosity, and decision-making. At no point does the child appear mischievous or naughty. They are fully absorbed in the creative adventure, exercising agency in a safe and playful way. The Reveal: Understanding the child’s world Only at the end does the imaginative adventure pull back the curtain: the sprawling city covered in tomato sauce is actually the child’s room. The dragon toy and the bottle of sauce created a playful mess across toys and the child's bed. The reveal highlights the child’s control over their play. For parents, it’s a reminder that the “chaos” of independent play is intentional and meaningful, not random or malicious. The benefits of child-led storytelling Books about seeing through a child’s eyes, like The Tomato Sauce Dragon , help parents: Step back and observe rather than react immediately to what seems chaotic Appreciate the curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving in their child’s actions Reflect on the balance between guidance and letting children explore independently Understanding the child’s perspective encourages empathy and patience, helping parents respond thoughtfully rather than with frustration. Personalise The Tomato Sauce Dragon for Free You can personalise the book for your child at no cost, and even save a digital copy by opening an account. You only pay if you choose to purchase a printed copy. Click here to personalise your child’s copy of The Tomato Sauce Dragon , and celebrate the joy of seeing the world from a child’s perspective. Parents who have read the book with their children often report hearty laughs and out-loud giggles.
