Preschooler Week 11

0

Telling Stories

Narration is a very important part of the learning process. Children absorb information, experiences and ideas all day long and process all of it internally. When children start talking about what they had learned in their own words, they are in essence showing you that they are able to make sense of the world and relate their version back to others. Narration, then, should be encouraged as much as possible. Encouraging kids to put their experiences in their own words from a young age helps them develop confidence in their oral communication skills.

Here are some ideas to encourage story telling or narration in young children:

  • When asking about your child’s day, don’t say, ‘Did you have a nice day at school today?’ This is an example of a closed question. Rather, aim to ask open questions such as, ‘What was the nicest thing you did at school today?’ or ‘Tell me something about school today that you didn’t enjoy.’ Avoid questions answerable with a plain yes or no.
  • If your child’s language development is delayed or he or she is not a natural talker, provide him or her with another means for self-expression. Paper and crayons or play dough can go a long way to help your child express his or her thoughts and feelings.
  • Avoid using too many questions when interacting with your child. Instead say, ‘Wow that is interesting,’ or else ‘Tell me more.’
  • Help your kids out when they are having difficulty sequencing events while narrating. You can say, ‘What happened before Julia opened her presents?’ This will help your kids structure their narrations with a beginning, middle, and end.
  • Tell your child about your day and your experiences. Hearing how you express yourself will help your child formulate and express his or her own thoughts.                                                                                             

Narration is a skill that children will benefit from throughout their lives—not only in academics, but also in personal relationships. Make sure to encourage this from an early age.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here