Telling a Story

You can become a master storyteller by incorporating some of the following into your narration:

• Choose books and stories that are fun and enjoyable for both you and your child.
• Become familiar with the story before reading it.
• Arouse your child's curiosity by placing an object from the story in a "mystery" bag or box. Have your child guess what it is without looking.
• Capture your child's attention by using a hand puppet to tell the story.
• Read the story slowly and clearly.
• Ham it up by changing the tempo, volume, and expression of your voice for different characters.
• Allow plenty of time for your child to look at the pictures and ask questions. (Little ones are more interested in the illustrations.)
• Do not feel you must read verbatim. Tell the story in your own words if that will make it more entertaining.
• Have your child supply sound effects for stories about animals or transportation vehicles.
• Directly involve your child by stopping periodically and asking such questions as, "What do you think (the main character) is going to do now?" "What would you do?"
• Discuss the difference between real-life and make-believe.
• Be aware of your child's cues and read only as long as your child appears to be interested.