In an article written for School Library Journal by Lisa G. Kropp, we discover how using props can add a new dimension to a storytime at home. Props are extremely useful for five reasons:
- They make it easy to model play. Using a simple prop such as a tissue box to pull out scarves or another surprise makes it more fun. Caregivers can easily do this at home.
- They don't need to be store-bought. Use easy to duplicate flannel board pieces, made out of oak tag or card stock. Make stick puppets for children to act the story out or extend the book by creating a new ending.
- They help little ones sit through a rhyme or story. Sometimes young brains need a different visual than the book. Perhaps they are sitting on a lap 15 feet away from you or the illustrations in the book are on the smaller side or very detailed. Having a prop, such as an enlarged photo, a puppet of a character from the story or a flannel board to supplement the "turn of the page", creates more interaction to help the tale come to life.
- They make concepts visual. Shapes, colors, letters, or numbers can all be used in conjunction with a book. Try reading an alphabet title, such as R is for Rocket: An ABC Book by Tad Hills. Hand out large letters and on the second reading of the book, young listeners will be waiting for "their" letter to be called so they can hold it up in the air or place it on a flannel or magnet board. Extend the learning with an art activity. Create a letter collage using the first letter of their name on a large piece of construction paper. Add a glue stick, some tissue paper sheets to rip into pieces and glue onto the letter. Instant art project!
- The add a sense of wonder to a program/activity. Children can explore different sounds, and the various objects that make them, by listening and following simple directions to make a noise at the right time. Egg shakers, for example, are perfectly sized for teeny hands and children can contribute to the story by using them at appropriate times.
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