Re: Storytelling/Libwk

[Beverly Kay Maddox <bmaddox@MAILER.FSU.EDU>]

Patricia,
        How lucky your kids are that you have arranged to have
storytellers! i consulted with a friend on your "dilemma"--she is an
experienced public librarian storyteller who tells stories to thousands
of kids each spring and fall as part of an outreach program from a large
library systerm.  She said, "Tell this person you know the perfect
public school situation for a storyteller: about 120 students in
the elementary multi-purpose room (translate: high ceiling, gym-like...."
She then suggested that a microphone would be nice if the storyteller
can't be heard by everyone and that the teachers remain with the students
and model good listening and attentive audience behavior.  It is a
distraction to have teachers shushing and threatening the kids, however.

An effective storyteller doesn't need props, she affirms.  As a veteran
listerner to storytellers, I agree.

To further win over your teachers, if you know the stories ahead of time,
you might suggest pre-visit and post-visit activities for the classrooms...

And, as a note from me, encourage the teachers to have the kids write
notes to the storyteller, sort of like reading log responses rather than
straight up thank yous.....

I know you will enjoy this treat you've arranged for the kids.

Beverly Maddox, a language arts teacher who loves a good story!