Introduction
We all know that children love listening to a good story. Plus getting them to make up their own stories does wonderful things for them in so many areas of development (such as language skills and confidence).
But how can grown-ups help to jump-start the whole storytelling process without the aid of expensive gadgets and gizmos?
How CBeebies can help
Why not set aside some special time to drive that exciting, imaginative storytelling process through? You could start with a CBeebies show, such as Driver Dan's Story Train or Charlie and Lola. Or why not have a go at one of the Jackanory Junior story-making games on the CBeebies website?
Then, provide your child with just a few prompts and you will find that they will be flying into the land of fantasy with ease.
Here are a few ideas for prompts: sit in a special place together - perhaps say it is a magic story-telling carpet/place/hide-away and a place where stories can be born! Why not use puppets or paper and crayons to take the next step? Ask your child what they would like to do. It's always best to let your child take the lead.
How to make a magic moment
There are some quick and simple ways to inspire your child to create some really imaginative storytelling moments. Offer them a few sentences to get started. Try these:
One day there was a huge...
It was a rainy day when all of a sudden...
All was quiet and peaceful when an unexpected thing happened...
Then, perhaps take it in turns to tell the story. Be bold. Let it unfold and you will both be taken on an adventure!
Why not draw pictures to accompany it? Something to keep forever.
