Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
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.
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Written by Donna Warner Manczak, Ph.D., M.P.H.
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Copyright 1999 Clinical Reference Systems
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