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October/November 2008 |
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Storytelling Weaves a Family History
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Storytelling is a "silver thread" that weaves generations and siblings into a tightly woven tapestry. Each time a parent tells a story of their childhood or a grandparent shares life encounters, these threads connect them in a way that cannot be broken. These stories create the fabric of a family’s past and of its future. Parents and grandparents hold a wealth of experience that not only can fascinate the younger generation, but also can teach values, provide solutions for problems and establish identity clues. You don’t have to be talented to be a good storyteller.
The word "story-teller" may bring to mind a speaker who is dramatic and
holds listeners spellbound. Your grandchildren and children are
fascinated just to hear about your past and experiences--the good times
and the tough. These stories give insight into a part of you that were
unknown and that creates links of understanding between the young and
old. 4Have fun and don’t act your age. Remember to add in some humor and learn to relay your stories with a sense of fun or amusement. Children love to hear about the mistakes and mishaps of your life. It helps them realize that it is normal to have tough or embarrassing times. 4Share a story to make a point. But don’t lecture! Children are more open to morality lessons if they don’t feel like the story is pointed at them. 4Be animated with your voice and your face. Facial expressions and changes in tone are an essential part of storytelling. They grab and keep children’s attention. Later, they will probably ask for more stories using "grandma’s silly voice." 4Use props and tools. Include pictures, music or keepsakes as a prop. You can use an object to build the story around: an embroidered handkerchief, a family heir-loom, an old horseshoe, a pair of baseball tickets when you saw Babe Ruth—all can trigger stories from the past. 4Address tough topics. Don’t be afraid to use tough situations from your past to show children about life’s fears or challenges. These stories about making choices and what happened as a result give children real-life examples to ponder. 4Tailor the story to the child’s attention span. Sometimes less is more if the child is young. Older youth can be engaged for a longer, more detailed story. 4Listen as well as talk. While you’re telling your story, children will often interrupt to ask questions, share their stories or tell little jokes. Storytelling should be an exchange with your grandchild. Enjoy the dialogue with them. 4Document your family’s stories. Video-tapes, audio tapes or written stories help your family stories live long after you’re gone. Spend some of the upcoming winter nights recording your stories. Sources: Amy Goyer, director of the AARP Foundation’s Grandparenting Program; AARP Bulletin, August 2008.; Donald Davis: http://www.callofstory.org
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Kris Jenkins jenkinsr@missouri.edu Regional Specialist Human Development Specialist Last revised: 01/27/09 |