Hey educator? Are You Looking for an Awesome Tool to Lift Your Storytelling Sessions to the Next Level? Consider using a storytelling apron for an interactive and engaging experience.
Bringing stories to life in the classroom can sometimes feel like a challenge, but with the right tools, storytelling can become awesome!
One such tool that has transformed storytelling is my favourite Storytelling Apron. This creative, hands-on approach allows educators to engage young learners using colourful manipulatives, and felt puppets, enhancing children’s listening skills, attention spans, and creative thinking—all through the magic of storytelling.
Follow me, as I’ll walk you through the effective use of the Storytelling Apron and offer practical tips on how to create your own custom story kits.
What is a Storytelling Apron?
A Storytelling Apron is a wearable teaching tool that helps educators tell stories more interactively. The apron has pockets or Velcro patches, this apron allows you to attach and display story-related props, helping children visualise key story elements like characters, objects, or scenes. It turns ordinary storytelling into a memorable, hands-on experience.
From early childhood pre-service teachers to educators, the Storytelling Apron is ideal for anyone working with early childhood learners. It’s designed to help children connect visually with the narrative while you are telling the story.
Why Use a Storytelling Apron?
I often see teachers and educators reading books during circle time. Which is great, don’t get me wrong. Yet, storytelling is more than just reading words off a page—it’s about creating an immersive experience.
By using a Storytelling Apron, you can bring stories to life in a way that captivates children.
Here’s why it’s so effective👇🏻
- The manipulatives attached to the apron give children a concrete way to see and follow the story.
- The children can interact with the manipulatives, fostering a sense of participation.
- Visual and tactile stimuli help maintain attention spans, especially for younger children.
- Children are more likely to remember a story when they can associate it with visual cues.
- It inspires children to think creatively and even imagine new versions of the story.
Practicing with the Storytelling Apron
Before you introduce the apron in your classroom, it’s a good idea to practice using it at home. Here is how I started using the apron.
1. Observe from the Child’s Perspective
Stand in front of a mirror while practising, or ask a friend to sit down and give you feedback. The idea is to see what your students will see, ensuring that you aren’t blocking their view of the props on your apron.
2. Perfect Your Positioning
Make sure the apron sits at the right height, ideally with the bottom edge around the middle of your thigh. This placement allows easy access to the pockets without interrupting the flow of the story. You’ll also want to ensure that the manipulatives are easily reachable but don’t crowd each other. I am pretty short, so I need to adjust the apron before telling stories, so I can reach the pockets and puppets in them 🙂
3. Start Simple
Start with familiar, short stories, using a few basic manipulatives. Once you become comfortable with the apron, you can add more complexity to your storytelling sessions. You’ll be amazed at how quickly children adapt to the visual storytelling cues! Some simple songs and stories to start with – twinkle, twinkle, little star, five little monkeys etc.
Presenting Stories with the Storytelling Apron
Now that you’re comfortable with your apron, let’s dive into how to present stories effectively.
When using the apron, stand in a place where all the children can clearly see the manipulatives. If they’re seated on the floor, aim to stand about four feet away from the front row. This distance helps ensure that everyone has a clear view, even those seated at the back. I usually sit in the chair.
Always start by showing the cover of the book or story you’re telling. This visual cue prepares children for what’s to come. You can also give them a brief introduction about the story, setting the scene and building anticipation.
As you go through the story, move slightly from side to side. This movement allows all students to see the props and prevents blocking the view of any child. Each time you introduce a new character or object, hold it up for everyone to see and then attach it to your apron.
Invite children to participate by asking them questions like “What do you think happens next?” or “Can you find the rabbit on the apron?” This keeps them engaged and encourages active listening.
Tips for Making Your Own Story Kits
If you’re feeling crafty, you can extend the use of your Storytelling Apron by making custom story kits. Here’s how to create them:
1. Choose the Right Story
Select simple stories that lend themselves to visual representation. Stories with around 8 to 12 key elements work best. For example, folk tales, animal stories, or adventure tales with clear characters and settings are ideal.
2. Create the Manipulatives
You can make story props from a variety of materials:
- Printed and laminated characters can be lightweight and easy to use.
- Soft materials like felt or foam work well, especially for younger children.
- If using thin paper, mount it on sturdy cardboard so it stands up better in the apron pockets. I usually attach Velcro strips to the back of my props so they stick securely to the apron, preventing them from falling during storytelling.
3. Use Fabrics for Texture
If you prefer a more hands-on approach, fabric manipulatives can add a sensory dimension to your storytelling. Just ensure they’re not too bulky so they adhere well to the apron.
4. Store Story Kits for Reuse
Keep your story kits organized by storing each set of manipulatives in labelled bags. This makes it easy to switch between stories and keeps your materials in good condition for future use.
Here is an example of homemade storytelling apron
Caring for Your Storytelling Apron
To ensure that your Storytelling Apron stays in good condition for as long as possible, follow these care tips:
- Hand wash the apron in warm water to prevent damage to any Velcro or sewn elements. I wash mine in the washing machine on wool settings.
- Line dry the apron to maintain its shape and avoid shrinkage, especially if it’s made from nylon or cotton-polyester blends.
- Store properly by hanging it up when not in use, ensuring that no props or manipulatives are left attached to the apron, which can cause creases or tears.
Final Thoughts🤯🧠
Whether you’re a beginner at using storytelling tools or a seasoned educator seeking new ways to engage children, the Storytelling Apron is an excellent addition to your teaching toolkit. It encourages interaction, promotes focus, and fosters creativity—all while making learning fun and enjoyable. With this simple tool, you can bring any story to life and captivate the imaginations of young learners.
So, grab your apron, get creative, and let the storytelling begin!
Don’t forget to post a picture or a video in my facebook community
FAQs About Storytelling Aprons
1. How do I start using a Storytelling Apron if I’ve never used one before? Start by practising with familiar stories at home. Focus on positioning the manipulatives where children can see them, and gradually add more complex elements as you become comfortable.
2. What types of stories work best with a Storytelling Apron? Simple stories with clear, visual elements work best—like fairy tales, folk tales, or any narrative with distinct characters and objects.
3. Can I use the Storytelling Apron for older children? Yes! While it’s most popular in early childhood settings, older children can also benefit, especially in group storytelling or creative writing exercises.
4. Where can I buy materials to make story props? Craft stores offer various materials like felt, foam, and cardboard. You can also find Velcro strips and glue for assembling your props.
5. How do I store my Storytelling Apron and kits? Store your apron hanging in a closet and keep your story props in labeled bags for easy organization.
6. What are the benefits of using a Storytelling Apron? It enhances engagement, fosters creativity, helps with focus, and makes storytelling a more interactive and enjoyable experience for children.
