Storytime: A connection like no other
“The parent-child relationship is strengthened through authentic and meaningful interactions, such as reading stories.”
From It’s Bedtime, Charlie! by Tim Warnes (DMind & The Prince 2020) | © 2020 by Tim Warnes
I am surrounded by packing boxes in anticipation of moving home next Friday.
My collection of children's books is still on my shelves and will likely be among the first boxes opened at the other end.
Some of my earliest (and fondest) memories are of bedtime stories - like Maurice Sendak's tiny collection, Nutshell Library, which I still have. I remember my mum and grandma reading to me - but even more so my dad. Dad was an excellent narrator. He really threw himself into it, using different voices to bring the cast to life and dramatise the reading! Recurring favourites include Dick Bruna's Miffy, who spoke with a permanently stuffy nose; Brer Rabbit (with those convincing William Backhouse illustrations); and Charlotte's Web by E.B. White.
It was also the good old days when teachers had the luxury of reading a chapter each day from a book at the end of the morning or afternoon lessons. (Always the best part of the day!) Undoubtedly, these childhood storytimes helped forge my career as a writer. And I'm not alone - it's something many writers and creators of picture books have in common. (Eric Carle and Richard Scarry, for example, both cite being sat as children on their father's laps listening to stories as influential.)
Being enfolded in loving arms, snuggled up to someone who loves you.
The quiet, hushed tones;
the scratch of dad's stubble.
Summer light glowing through pulled curtains.
The warmth of the bedside light on evenings when the dark has long crept in.
I find that sense of togetherness - of connection through stories - powerful and appealing. It's been ingrained in me; it's the same togetherness that I relished during storytime with my own boys.
From I Love You More Than Christmas by Ellie Hattie & Tim Warnes (Little Tiger Press 2020) | Illustration © 2020 by Tim Warnes
Reading stories with your kids creates a connection like no other.
Conversation and curiosity flow as the story is paused and discussed.
Don't get me wrong - I loved snuggling up in front of the tv, too. But sharing a story together - where you are entering a world of imagination, rather than merely having it presented - that's something special.
Maureen Healy, author of The Emotionally Healthy Child:
The parent-child relationship is strengthened through authentic and meaningful interactions, such as reading stories (or telling one from your imagination).
Image © @iamkelmitchell | Used with permission
Connecting you with your kids through stories worth sharing has become - and will remain - the focus of my work. (My website will soon be updated to reflect this). I look forward to continuing sharing my insights and excitement with you.
Just got to get moved first…