Props are an important part of storytime, adding to children's enjoyment of the story, holding their attention and sustaining their concentration. But they are only one facet of storytelling. Gesture, expression, intonation, actions, sounds and audience participation are all part of the storytelling process and aspects that practitioners will need to consider when honing their storytelling skills.
Indeed, there is a case, particularly with older children, for sometimes not worrying too much about props but giving greater attention to these other aspects which encourage children to use their imaginations and visualise the story.
Use the 'Please!' tips below for telling stories and see how many are put into practice in the two stories that follow.
PARTICIPATION
Look for relevant rhythms, rhymes or songs to include in your story - make them up if necessary.
Encourage your audience to join in by smiling your approval.
Allow children opportunities to express their ideas about what may happen.
Seize the silence at the end of the story to invite children to comment or ask questions.
Engage children in follow-up activities to help them make the story their own.
LEARNING
Explore ways of adding to children's knowledge - but in a 'non-teachy' way.
Add new words into your storytelling - you don't always have to explain what they mean.
See if children can bring out knowledge from topics they have been working on.
Extend the experience of a particular story by showing other related books.
EXPRESSION
Attitudes of face and body are important in communicating - let go!
Set aside shyness to show the emotions in a story - but go easy on anger and fear.
Echoing your listeners' responses helps them feel acknowledged.
Action Show what is going on in the story by using gestures - up, down! - they add to the fun.
Employ child-helpers to assist your storytelling in acting out scenes for others.
SOUND
Extend the range of sound by varying your voice - high, low, slow, fast, etc.
Entertainment = Education