Lessons from Story Time
Source/Author: Nancy L. Spencer, Head of School
September 18, 2020
One of the new joys that has entered my life from being at Shorecrest is reading to the Alphas.
Many studies have shown that the most effective way to cultivate a love of reading in children is to read to them; for me it is also just so much fun. It’s been two decades since my own children were that age, and being around 3 and 4 year-olds reminds me of the lessons I can learn from them. The pleasure we take from stories, the joy of being in the moment, and the ongoing reminder of listening, are just a few of the take-aways that have enhanced my experience.
Each week, I skip out of my office and head over to The Experiential School. Just entering the classroom brings a smile to my face. The three-year-olds are seated in a circle, with their rapt attention on their teacher. I walk in and am warmly greeted with “Hi, Ms. Spencer!” When I read to the Alpha and JK students on the Flexible Learning Program next week, I expect that they will be just as excited and eager to interact with me. I either bring a favorite book of my own ("Tacky the Penguin" is at the top of my list) or I pick a book from The Experiential School’s ample library.
For parents of young children, it’s no surprise how much children enjoy being read to. For those of us with older kids or youngsters who struggle with reading, it’s a powerful reminder of the value of reading aloud. Part of the joy of telling stories is about making a connection between reader and listener.
For me, observing a child’s unabashed glee at a colorful picture, her mouth open-wide when the story takes an unexpected turn, or watching a little boy’s connection with animals or people in the story -- it makes my heart swell. I see the pure empathy that emanates from their faces as they listen to the plight of the characters.
A popular catch phrase we use today is “mindfulness,” which is really about focusing one's awareness on the present, instead of the past or future. There is no better reminder of being in the moment than to watch how young children listen, process, and absorb a story. Our youngest students are so engaged that their entire attention is on me and the book. Every fiber is focused on the now.
Certainly, some (most) Alphas are still learning how to listen. It’s really because they are so excited about a story, they want to share their thoughts out loud. The words just burst out, interrupting each other along the way. It’s enthusiasm expressed in a verbal manner, something I identify with a whole lot. A gentle reminder from their teacher is all it takes to redirect the focus. I silently file away the cue about the importance of listening and not interrupting for my own meetings and conversations.
I love reading and I love getting to know students, so combining the two is a delight. I look forward to many more happy sessions.
I also want to wish a Happy New Year to those who are celebrating the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah. New years and new beginnings are moments to take stock of the past and look hopefully towards the future. May we all experience good health and happiness in the coming year.
All the best,
Nancy
Many studies have shown that the most effective way to cultivate a love of reading in children is to read to them; for me it is also just so much fun. It’s been two decades since my own children were that age, and being around 3 and 4 year-olds reminds me of the lessons I can learn from them. The pleasure we take from stories, the joy of being in the moment, and the ongoing reminder of listening, are just a few of the take-aways that have enhanced my experience.
Each week, I skip out of my office and head over to The Experiential School. Just entering the classroom brings a smile to my face. The three-year-olds are seated in a circle, with their rapt attention on their teacher. I walk in and am warmly greeted with “Hi, Ms. Spencer!” When I read to the Alpha and JK students on the Flexible Learning Program next week, I expect that they will be just as excited and eager to interact with me. I either bring a favorite book of my own ("Tacky the Penguin" is at the top of my list) or I pick a book from The Experiential School’s ample library.
For parents of young children, it’s no surprise how much children enjoy being read to. For those of us with older kids or youngsters who struggle with reading, it’s a powerful reminder of the value of reading aloud. Part of the joy of telling stories is about making a connection between reader and listener.
For me, observing a child’s unabashed glee at a colorful picture, her mouth open-wide when the story takes an unexpected turn, or watching a little boy’s connection with animals or people in the story -- it makes my heart swell. I see the pure empathy that emanates from their faces as they listen to the plight of the characters.
A popular catch phrase we use today is “mindfulness,” which is really about focusing one's awareness on the present, instead of the past or future. There is no better reminder of being in the moment than to watch how young children listen, process, and absorb a story. Our youngest students are so engaged that their entire attention is on me and the book. Every fiber is focused on the now.
Certainly, some (most) Alphas are still learning how to listen. It’s really because they are so excited about a story, they want to share their thoughts out loud. The words just burst out, interrupting each other along the way. It’s enthusiasm expressed in a verbal manner, something I identify with a whole lot. A gentle reminder from their teacher is all it takes to redirect the focus. I silently file away the cue about the importance of listening and not interrupting for my own meetings and conversations.
I love reading and I love getting to know students, so combining the two is a delight. I look forward to many more happy sessions.
I also want to wish a Happy New Year to those who are celebrating the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah. New years and new beginnings are moments to take stock of the past and look hopefully towards the future. May we all experience good health and happiness in the coming year.
All the best,
Nancy
