Recommended Age: 4y+
Level of Parent Involvement: Low, once modelled
Prerequisites
- None
Materials
- An audio book
Preparation
- Choose an audio book for your child to listen to.
- https://www.storylineonline.net/
- https://stories.audible.com/discovery/enterprise-discovery-21122358011?ref=adbl_ent_anon_ds_ds_dccs_sbtp-0-1
- https://www.vooks.com/
- https://storyboxlibrary.com.au/
Steps
- Set up a cosy listening place for your child (blanket, stuffed animal or small toy to hold, headphones, device nearby but not in the child’s hands). Have them use the bathroom before beginning.
- If possible, have the child listen without headphones, but quietly, so others can hear the story, too.
- Show the child how to start and stop the story, and how to tidy up the area when the story is finished.
- Ask questions afterward. “What was your favourite part? Why do you think she did that? What would you have done?”
- Let them know they can listen to the same story anytime they like.
Variations
- Show your child how to set up a workplace with paper and crayons or other art supplies to use as he listens.
- An older child can draw a picture about the book that he listened to and you can invite him to tell you about the story with reference to his picture.
- The child can listen to the story with a blindfold on.
Notes
- Young children love listening to the same stories over–and–over again. Repetition is comforting, offering predictability and a sense of control. Hearing stories repeatedly also helps children develop an understanding of cause and effect and gives them an opportunity to absorb language patterns and new vocabulary.
