IMPACT OF STORIES IN CHILDREN’S LIVES
Stories
are
glimpses into life’s truths. Something about them is magical which stirs the
soul. Man is a storytelling animal. Wherever he goes, he leaves behind the
comforting marker buoys and trial signs of stories. It is interesting how some
of life’s greatest lessons can be found in children’s’ literature.
Children
have an innate love of stories which play a vital role in their growth and
development. Most of the stories are
packed with nuggets of wisdom for the young minds. They teach about love,
family, kindness, courage, fear and friendship. A fascinating blend of
simplicity and life’s lessons, these stories are like security blankets for the
children, all warm and fuzzy on the outside but deeply symbolic on the inside.
They can be funny, touching, deep, poignant or charming but in the end, they
are just stories children love. That’s why they so often stay with us well into
adulthood.
Stories
are not only a great way to introduce words and ideas into children’s language,
but also to enhance their listening skills, make academic learning easier,
bring them in touch with their cultural roots and broaden their horizons. One
of the most egregious things about stories is that they allow children to
forget the stress of the day, relax and indulge in fantastical worlds of other
planets and invented characters. Most small children live their lives in a
limited environment. Reading stories to children can show them far flung
places, extraordinary people and eye opening situations to expand and enrich
their world. They sow the life’s seeds in a child’s heart, from these seeds
springs up confidence, dignity and self-worth.
With
technology invading our lives, storytelling and reading has become rare.
Although it appears that everything has changed, a good story and the joy that
a child gets from listening to it, is a constant. Some stories have such a
powerful impact that they keep reverberating in the minds of children for a
very long time. The stories with morals teach a child not only the tolerance
and gentleness of the mind but also the sublime love for all living beings.
They are like boundless oceans, teeming with priceless gems. The deeper we
dive, the more treasures we will find.As Matthew
Kaisely has aptly said, “Stories are
one of the greatest gifts we can give to our children. Stories are equipment
for life.”
BY: SHILPI UDDESHI
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