Take Your Time With Storytime
November 4, 2024
We often find it crammed between other activities and tasks, fitting snugly among the things we make just enough time for. We sometimes see it as a checkbox- another item on the 'bedtime' list, easily rushed through or scratched off when minutes are scarce. It's storytime, and even those of us who prioritize it might not be aware of its importance.
*When you sit and read with a child, you have the opportunity to create a connection. You can bond over this shared time and let the child see parts of you they might otherwise not; this helps to build trust and a feeling of safety.
*Storytime exposes children to new and unfamiliar things, and can also reveal existing interests. Notice what they inquire about and focus on, and expand on these things through conversation, future stories, and other daily activities. You never know where a spark of curiosity might lead.
*Reading is an essential life skill that enables endless opportunities for education and entertainment. Being mindfully read to can cultivate a natural propensity for literacy, allowing a child the advantage of choosing the direction they'd like to go in life.
*The leisurely review of a storybook is a beautiful way to enhance a child's worldview. Taking the time to notice and discuss unfamiliar items and experiences depicted in the book will expand your child's knowledge base and familiarity with their global community. This fosters connection, empathy, and kindness.
*Storytime encourages focus, listening skills, and attention span. When the reader infuses excitement and wonder into a story, a child will practice attentiveness without knowing it. They can benefit from this valuable skill in many ways throughout life.
*A thoughtfully read story will incite imagination! When we speed through a book we might provide brief entertainment, but when we immerse ourselves in a story together, we enable a child to absorb the magic and possibilities of their world. Many of the best things come from active imaginations.
*Storytime can be instrumental in helping children navigate difficult topics and feelings. Carefully reading stories on sensitive subjects or familiar challenges helps them see themselves and their situations in different ways. Offering a broader view on these matters allows perspective and comfort, and assists in social-emotional development.
*Reading can create bonding experiences between children. Whether in a classroom with peers or at home with siblings, when storytime is presented as an engaging event, children become part of a community that can share joy in something common.
*Stories are creativity embodied, and can stimulate an inherent love of art in many forms. Children's books inspire pretend-play, drawing, painting, music, movement, mimicry, building, experimenting, and more. Creation is essential for personal expansion and storytime is a natural creative influence.
*Storytime invites joy! When we skip or rush through reading to our kids, we leave behind opportunities to invoke true joy. Happy kids make healthy humans, and every moment counts.
*Bonus: a person can enjoy a positive experience for their entire life (we all know the effect of a fond memory). What a gift we can give, if only we take the time to read to our children with intention. 📚✨
For tips and ideas on creating an engaging storytime, click here.