The Benefits of Storytelling
Social Understanding
Storytelling promotes understanding of other peoples and cultures. In a story we feel connected to others and this promotes compassion, tolerance, respect and responsibility. It connects us as a family and community. Tell a story of tolerance and acceptance, hope and heroism and that is what we learn. We see ourselves in the story.
Cognitive
Storytelling ignites the imagination, instills a love of language and motivation to read. Memory, imaging, vocabulary, comprehension and sequencing, are all strengthened. Storytelling improves listening skills that are essential in learning, and in relationships. Storytelling encourages creative writing, creative thinking and problem solving. We develop stronger memories for the events of our lives when we learn to convert those events into meaningful stories.
Emotional
In a story a listener can personally experience fear and heroism, love and hate, compassion, sorrow, grief and joy in a controlled and safe environment. We can heal emotional wounds or celebrate life's victories through shared stories. Where else could you experience high adventure or tender love in such safety? Only in storytelling.
One good story always leads to
another point of view,
another adventure,
another image,
another voice,
another song,
another place
another time.
You don't have to take my word for any of this. Just click on
The Experts and see what they have to say.