The benefits of storytelling
The UK’s National Literacy Trust says the best chance for children to learn to read well is to ensure that they have a rich language experience early in life.
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Enjoying stories – narrated or signed – helps children learn how to concentrate.
Storytelling helps physical development – even turning the pages of a book aids small motor skills. Illustrations in picture books don’t just support the text. Exploring images and ideas develops our imagination and our senses – sight, touch, smell and sound – and helps us learn conversational skills. Reading helps to introduce children to the structure and vocabulary of the English language – excellent for children learning English as a second language and vital knowledge even if their first language is BSL. The confidence to communicate helps reduce the social isolation experienced by many deaf children and those with special educational needs. Stories also help develop emotional intelligence and picture books help children find meaning within their own life.Children can pore over emotional situations contained within books that may help to relieve personal frustrations, or they can encounter exciting and imaginative experiences way beyond their own environment or even their dreams. Storytelling is a great shared experience – helping children bond with their siblings, their friends and family, and their teachers and carers.
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"With good literacy skills, people are happier, healthier, more successful and more likely to contribute to society."
