National Storytelling Week (1st – 9th February) is the perfect opportunity to celebrate stories in all their forms. Whether it’s reading aloud, retelling a traditional tale, listening to an author read their own work, or recommending a favourite book, storytelling is a powerful tool for learning and connection.
This year, our librarians share ideas and resources to support storytelling in the classroom during National Storytelling Week and beyond, ensuring that stories, both in physical and digital form, continue to inspire and engage pupils of all ages.
National Storytelling Week gives us the perfect opportunity to embrace stories in all forms. While many children read regularly, some may not have the same access to books or the time to read. Sharing stories digitally helps ensure all pupils can enjoy literature, no matter their circumstances.
Reading aloud to children, no matter their age, offers multiple benefits:
Celebrate National Storytelling Week by offering a storytelling session for your whole class. Create a cozy, inviting atmosphere with comfortable seating, and consider adding fun touches like inviting pupils to bring in a small teddy or blanket to enhance the experience.
Engage your pupils during the story by using gestures, facial expressions, and inviting them to join in with repetitive parts of the story. You can also ask pupils to write their own stories and share them with the class—this sparks creativity and keeps them engaged.
Select a mix of chapter books, picture books, poetry, and non-fiction that are great for reading aloud. Pick stories that you enjoy as well; your enthusiasm will make the storytelling more engaging for your pupils.
Enhance the storytelling experience by using props, different voices, and varied intonation. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra drama—pause at cliffhangers, use action words, or incorporate dress-up clothes and soft toys for a more immersive experience.
Set the tone for your story with some atmospheric music. Whether it’s calming classical music or adventurous tracks like a Star Wars soundtrack for a sci-fi tale, the right music can add another layer of excitement to your session.
1. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
A classic story of imagination and adventure, this book is perfect for exploring themes of creativity, bravery, and emotions.
2. The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson
Beloved by pupils of all ages, this rhyming tale invites participation with its repetitive and engaging text.
3. Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo
This collection of empowering tales celebrates remarkable women from history.
4. The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt
This humorous book introduces unique perspectives through the voices of crayons, sparking discussions about individuality and teamwork.
You can find more inspiration on the National Story Telling website.
Make National Storytelling Week a celebration of imagination, creativity, and the joy of stories with these ideas and resources!
National Storytelling Week is an excellent time to encourage engagement with books and stories in new and creative ways. Whether it’s through virtual storytimes or writing and sharing original tales, storytelling continues to be a powerful tool for education and imagination.