Using Props in Storytelling

السلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته

During storytime, it is common that teachers, librarians, parents, etc. sometimes employ the use of props. If used correctly, props can serve to enhance a story and involve children in the story. The use of props in storytelling is yet another way to make learning multi-sensory and memorable. For storytime, we've been using a book that children are invited to assemble themselves and colour. We then read the book aloud with the enhancement of a simple prop.

Yesterday and today we read, 'It's Hajj!' with the use of a simple prop.
Here are a few of the pages from the book.

At this point in the story, toddlers hold up their hajji prop (below) and they move him forward as the teacher or parent reads, "Labayk Allahuma Labayk!"

Hajji prop

Right now, we are studying the letter Haa to tie in Hajj.

You can see some of the activities we've done for the letter Haa here insha'Allaah.

And when the story is done, each child can take his/her storybook and prop home to share with their family insha'Allaah.

Here are a few tips to remember when using a prop with a story insha'Allaah:

1. Use props when you want to invite children to come up to where you are seated and use the prop during the story (at the appropriate time). You can also use props in circle time as well insha'Allaah.
2. Keep the prop hidden/out of sight until it is needed. You do not wish to have the children's attention on the prop instead of your voice *smile*.
3. Don't overuse props. With preschool and kindergarten children you want to encourage the use of their imagination. Using props too frequently may not permit this and you do not wish to encourage the children to rely upon someone else's interpretation of the story. Let their imaginations form the pictures in their heads as much as possible insha'Allaah.
4. When using props, make sure they are sturdy. When using props, some children can get quite excited masha'Allaah. You want your prop to be able to handle their excitement...*smile*.
5. Don't rely on your prop to tell the story, your voice and your excitement are what make a good story a great read aloud.
6. Enjoy insha'Allaah and have fun!