Did you know that National Storytelling Week starts on January 29th? For a whole week, until February 5th, schools and other organisations will be giving children and adults the chance to share and tell stories.
National Storytelling Week gives us all a chance to remember our favourite stories, hear new ones and generally share the joy of a good story and this year’s theme is ‘Your Story-My Story’.
What was the first story you remember hearing? Maybe it was a bedtime story that a parent, carer or grandparent read to you? Do you remember the way they gave each character a different voice and the way they showed you the pictures to help you follow what was happening? Did they get you to guess what might happen next? Do you remember the way your imagination was fired up by the story you were hearing?
Unfortunately, not all children have the opportunity for such a rich and enjoyable reading experience growing up. There are many parents and carers who maybe don’t have access to books at home, are unable to spare the time, or simply do not have the confidence to read with their children. This is where Doorstep Library comes in, with our amazing team of reading volunteers.
You can make a massive difference to a child’s life by becoming a reading volunteer with Doorstep Library. Doorstep Library volunteers literally bring their love of books to a child’s doorstep. Our unique approach means that pairs of volunteers are welcomed into family homes, on the doorstep or online, bringing a backpack full of books and a pair of stools to sit and read with young children up to the age of 11. Currently, our volunteers are sharing their love of reading with children living in under-resourced areas of four London boroughs and we are continuing to grow.
As a volunteer you will not be judging, teaching or assessing progress. There are no inspections or grammar tests! You are there to read with children and give them the chance to discover the joys of a good story or a fascinating book. You don’t need to be a reading ‘expert’ or have any special skills, just a love of books and stories. Your enthusiasm and warmth will give the children you visit enjoyable and positive experiences that they will carry with them throughout their lives. As you get to know the children and their families, you will be able to choose and offer them books that fit in with their interests and enthusiasms. It is all about the enjoyment!
