Kids or adults, who doesn’t like to listen to stories? I still remember how we used to get engrossed in our grandmother’s stories in our childhood. But telling a good story is not everyone’s cup of tea. It is a skill that needs to be learned. And telling a story to the kids is definitely an art.
Listening to stories is an integral part of the childhood. It not only expands one’s imagination but also helps to develop vocabulary and language skills. Stories have fascinated people for centuries and have a power of connecting people. They are an important part of a culture. It is a very powerful tool to teach morals and values to the kids. Through stories we can introduce our glorious history to the kids.
“ The purpose of story teller is not to tell you how to think, but to tell you questions to think upon.” :- Brandon Sanderson
As the above quote suggests, stories not only improve the listening skills but also make the children think about other topics surrounding them. It helps to develop their reflective skills and encourages them to think logically.
Storytelling is an art and we as parents have to master this art. So here are some tips which help to develop the art of storytelling:-
- Select the story which is age appropriate to the child. You can build your own story or take it from any kid’s story book.
- Kids love puppets. So storytelling can be a combination of different puppets. Props, colourful wigs, hats, bright background make a simple story into an interesting one.
- Use voice modulation and facial expression to engage them into the story. This is the best trick to instantly connect the children to the story.
- Always maintain an eye contact which creates the sense of trustworthiness.
- Along with the voice, vary the volume, tone and speed of your voice. It automatically creates interest among the children and starts boosting their imagination.
- Adding sound effects on right time adds a cherry on the cake.
- Use different voices for different characters. This helps to recognise and fantasize the characters.
- Enact the role of a character if possible. Children love drama and animation. Whatever feeling you want to convey, may it be sad, shocked or excitement, you can do it with different actions. Use your creativity and inspire them through some actions and emotions.
- Always remember that you are narrating a story not just reading words. So it should not be boring. Use humour and punch lines wherever it is possible. Interact with them and ask open ended questions to see their grasping.
- Encourage them to retell the story. Retelling helps to enhance their confidence and speaking skills.
- Anything which teaches in the stories would never be forgotten and impact would be lifelong.
And last but not least, you yourself enjoy while telling the story.
Happy storytelling.
