- Choose stories that are child-appropriate (this is essential!)
- Always STOP-LOOK-LISTEN to the children you work with. Doing so helps you learn what concepts children can understand, what subjects interest them, which illustrations appeal to them, as well as appropriate language complexity and story length.
- Make the story come to life by using expression in your voice and body, but don't overdo it. Use your voice and you emotions to show that the story has YOUR interest, and a mutual enjoyment will build children's interest naturally.
- Speek clearly and loudly. Even the best story cannot be appreciated if your listeners are struggling to hear the words or if they are trying to guess what you are saying.
- Be aware of facial expressions and body language in your listeners. You may need to change, rephrase, or explain words or meanings for children while you are telling a story.
- Observe and be aware of your listeners while you are telling a story. If you sense uncertainty about a word, phrase, or sequence, take a moment to clarify things, BUT give only a brief explanation at the time. Talking too much in the middle of a story can make the whole thing fall apart!
- Consider using puppets, objects, or songs to focus interest when you are ready to begin the story. Children almost never ignore a puppet who invites them to listen to a "good story". Any object that relates to the story is a good way to get children curious about what you want to tell them.
- A song that is repeated whenever you are going to tell stories works as a magnet for children to gather around eagerly.
The Two Most Common of Story Problems
The storyteller does not know or enjoy the story. The storyteller may get confused, embarrased, annoyed, or try to apologize. Lack of knowledge or interest in the story demonstrates to the listeners that the narrator is not truly enjoying the story. The essence of the story is lost. This lack of interest will be transferred to the listeners who will most certainly become restless and disruptive.
Solution:
Always familarize yourself with the story before you tell it out loud. This will enable you to put the proper meaning into the words and make the story flow. This will aslo reduce the chances of making a mistake in telling the story, and will facilitate fixing any potential mistakes should this occur.
Problem 2:
Out of enthusiasm for the story, the storyteller makes a mistake in the sequence of events or the name of a character. Children who know the story may point out your mistake.
Solution:
If you correct your error with confidence, children will still feel that the story is intact. Children can tell when you know what you're doing--and when you don't! There's no reason to panic or feel ashamed, BECAUSE EVERYONE MAKES MISTAKES!!! It can actually be a positive thing for children to see adults do something less "perfect" frome time to time. Not only does it let them see that we are "regular folks", but it inspires them to use their own creativity and to try their own ideas in expressing themselves.
Conclusion
Remember, if you really like what you are telling or reading, you can never go yoo far wrong. You can fix most mistakes with simple honesty and a little humor!
