ECRR Concept of the Week (8-02-07)

Fables are fun, but are not always understood by younger children. For instance, this week in Story Time, we used selections from Aesop's Fables to entertain the children. Unfortunately, these stories can be complicated and the morals are lost on younger children. This is where puppets make wonderful props to bring a story to life. I noticed that the stories in which I used props seemed to capture the interest of children more than those without props. Props are not just a fun thing to use so the kids can play. Props can be educational because they encourage conversation and build narrative skills, an important ECRR concept. And who wouldn't want to hear a story they can "touch" rather than just see?-Amy Dawson, Youth Services Librarian, Catawba County Library System