Telling for sitters
Storytelling is a perfect skill for babysitters. You can gather the children round and capture their attention easily with the right story. Although reading a book is great, too, there is something very personal and special about someone telling a story just for you. Here are a few ideas to try:
Family stories
Have several stories from when you were as young as the kids you’re watching. They always love to hear about when you felt scared, got in trouble, were lost, or in a fight. For more ideas, see Family Stories
Pocket stories
Make several small puppets to tell a tale. Cut out several characters and objects from light cardboard and tape each one to a toothpick. Put them all in an envelope. Then, when you want a suprise or a change of pace, bring out the envelope, open it up, and start your tiny story.
Kamishibai
If you have time one day, you can make a set of these story cards and take them with you to tell a tale. They offer pictures, just like a book, but allow you more eye contact with your listener. See the instructions under Make a Prop. And since you’re just telling to one or two children, your set can be small — even made from index or greeting cards.
Toy tales
Everybody loves toys of some kind. Bring one or two of your old favorites - dolls, stuffed animals, action figures. Then make up a small story using the toy as you tell it. The children will also enjoy holding the toy and telling their own parts. If you have several small toys, put them in a grab-bag and let children pick a toy for your story.
Scary stories
The kids will probably beg for a scary story. And it is fun to tell a ghost tale or two. But be very, very careful to choose a story that won’t cause nightmares. It is better to be safe than sorry and to choose tamer material for little listeners. You can always make your voice a little scary even if the words are not. Try this old favorite to start.