All about the StoryGator
Storytelling is a great way to improve a child's imagination, communication skills as well as self-confidence.
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This web site is born out of our family muse: storytelling.
Just like all kids, Kaan LOVES stories. We read stories every day but we also make up stories.
At first, we made up stories to entertain Kaan. As he started to grasp the idea, he started to participate. First, he started to tell us what characters to use: "Tell me a story about a tree." So we did. Then he wanted to make it more challenging: "Tell me a story about a cat, a dog and a truck". So, we did. As he progressed, he gave us the scenes, the theme.. he was really enjoying it. Especially on long road trips, family storytelling became our most favorite pastime.
Since he was little, we have tried to explain the world around him with stories. Potty training was not fun for him. He didn't like the idea of his stinking poop disappearing in the toilet. After all it was "his poop", it belonged to him. So, we made up a story about the adventures of his poop going down the toilet bowl. The story immediately changed his attitude. Now, he wanted his poop to have new adventures and potty training was a success!
When Kaan didn't want to eat peas, we made up a story about the "super pea". When he didn't want to eat chickpeas, we told him why chickpeas were good for his health. I don't think as a 2-3 year old he really understood everything we told him. It was the way we explained him, the storytelling that intrigued him.
Kaan is now 6 years old. One day, he told me that we should write story books. I said "why not!" I started to think about different formats: e-books, actual printed books, audio books.. which one would a kid enjoy the most? The answer came again from our experience with Kaan.
I want him to associate reading and writing with stories, thus fun. So, there should be text.
He is in first grade and reading by himself is still a challenge. I believe it would be more fun and less discouraging if someone actually read the story to him.
Stories are, of course, more interesting and effective when they are accompanied by just enough visuals to kick start his own imagination, without over stimulating his brain.
As a result, I decided to create "video-books" and share our stories with other children. From our family to yours!
Both Kaan and I are VERY excited about our muse turning into a bigger adventure and reaching an audience. Please let us know what you think? Your feedback will motivate us!
We hope our video-books will be entertaining, educational, and encouraging for your child as well.
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If you have your own family stories, let us know. We would love to create your video-book as well.
Enjoy and take care!
Kaan & Mom