The techniques of Storytime as an Early Childhood Teacher

In an early childhood setting, Storytime can be one of the most exciting times of the day. It is a time for a teacher to invite the children over to a comfortable space where they can escape the realities of the day and dive into the experience of the story. Storytime is an opportunity for bonding, creativity and imagination. A shared experience that can support children’s social, emotional, cognitive and language development. Most importantly, a fun and engaging Storytime experience is a powerful tool in supporting a child’s lifelong love of reading.

Here are some techniques that Early Childhood Teachers use during Storytime to strengthen children’s learning:

1. Exploring Illustrations

Before you start the story, take a look at the images on the cover and throughout the book. Ask your child what they see and what they predict the story will be about.

2. Encourage critical thinking

Ask open-ended questions to encourage your child’s thinking and imagination. Some examples include, what do you think will happen in this story? What makes you think that? What do you think the characters are like in this story?

3. Read with expression and explore new vocabulary:

Bring life to the story by reading expressively. You can change voices for different characters and act out the story as you are reading it. Throughout the story, continue to ask questions and explore illustrations. Point out new words and encourage children to repeat the words and explain the meanings.

4. Use props

Storytime can involve more than a book. Adding props to your Storytime such as puppets, felt boards, toys, and musical instruments can bring added excitement and engagement in the experience.

5. Retelling the story

At the end of the story invite your child to retell the story in their own words encouraging their memory recall and communication skills. Ask them about their favourite part of the story.

6. After Storytime

Think of some follow up activities that you can do with your child after the story. This might include drawing a picture of a scene or character from the story, recreating the story through dramatic play with toys or dolls, it could even be visiting a place similar to that in the story.

Let your child choose storybooks they like and enjoy. Each Storytime with a child can provide endless possibilities, a love of reading and memorable moments of fun.