Utilising the Power of Storytelling
Updated: Nov 8, 2020
Children have it harder nowadays. They are left to their own devices so much more than we were as children. Families are smaller, parents are working more, family life is less interactive than it used to be. Children’s opinions and perceptions are formed by social media and the internet too much. What opportunities are lost by not making storytelling sessions part of daily life. Not only are we creating golden memories but science has shown a lot of further benefits. Stories stick. Good stories build a child’s knowledge and understanding of the world around them, as well as teach them about appropriate behaviour: what is acceptable and what is not. Good stories will develop the creativity of any child, preparing them for the future. Good stories expand their vocabulary and help them to develop new ways of thinking, listening, understanding, remembering, speaking up, questioning and problem solving. Good stories can influence and guide a child, and will have long-lasting effects. It would be so beneficial to use the time of storytelling to nurture the wellbeing of your children. In discussions after the stories are told, children can share each other’s thoughts and experiences: talk about matters close to their heart as well as forge connections between ideas and real life. So, for teachers and parents alike, stories offer a valuable means to instill such values and learning about issues that may often be overlooked at a time when the child may be very well going through those very issues themselves. This gives us the chance to teach children that they are not alone and every path, no matter how dark, always leads somewhere – somewhere better. The intent in storytelling should be, to educate and entertain the young children and instill prime principles in their minds to help them grow to become intelligent, empathetic and understanding people. So, use books and provide yourself and children a wonderful teaching experience. You will be glad you did.
- Galway Fairytales
www.umbrellaeile.ie/galway-fairytales