How To Conduct a Storytime

There are many ways to conduct a storytime. Choose an approach with which you feel comfortable. Consult some of the general information and tips available on how to conduct a storytime. But, remember…relax. What is most important to is that you enjoy what you are doing. If you have fun, you can be sure that the kids will too!

These resources provide general information and tips on how to conduct a storytime.

Babies Lap Time: Getting Started
Information on how to get started with a babies storytime are offered. These include some suggestions for the equipment needed, program opening, types and number of activities to use, and ideas for closing. The discussion is brief, but includes some very helpful suggestions.

Babies Lap Time: Tips
Program tips are covered in a separate section. These deal with repetition in the program, following the group, using songs on tape, using two themes if needed, props, flannelboards, thinking multi-sensory, and watching how the babies respond. The tips are specific and particularly useful.

Oval Products: RYC Ten Storytime Tips
Ten storytime tips are available. They relate to selection of materials; time needed for planning; reading through books; the order of the materials; practice of fingerplays; using a familiar activity for gathering; introducing book titles, authors, and illustrators; changing voice tone and volume; using frequent eye contact; and encouraging children to retell stories. The ideas are general in nature and offer basic guidelines for planning and conducting a storytime.

Richland County Public Library: Toolbox
More storytime tips are suggested. Topics included are enthusiasm, book selection, seating arrangements, inclusion of activities with books, thematic storytimes, questions not to ask of a group, and distractions during storytime. Considerations for book selection are particularly good.

Pathfinder prepared June 23, 2000 by Terry Rabideau

Please send suggestions and comments to rabideau@advinc.com