Storytelling Matters

Since the existence of man, storytelling has been a cornerstone of human connection. The human experience is marked by our desire to share our experiences, teach lessons, and pass on knowledge—whether around a crackling fire under the stars, through pen and paper, or immersive visuals of digital media. Storytelling isn’t just entertainment; it’s how we make sense of the world. And today, in the context of early literacy, this art form is more impactful than ever.

The Evolution of Storytelling

Storytelling began long before the written word, in the form of oral traditions. Imagine early humans gathered together, sharing tales that explained the mysteries of their world—why the sun rises and sets, how animals gained their traits, or heroic stories of ancestors. These spoken tales were passed down through generations.

The beauty of oral storytelling lies in its adaptability. Every storyteller adds their unique flair—changing details to better resonate with their audience. This dynamic exchange made oral traditions living, breathing legacies that could evolve alongside nations. 

Fast forward a little bit,and you find the evidence of visual storytelling. Visual storytelling by way of cave paintings in its earliest form helped to reach a wider audience and create a common understanding. 

Last, the written word comes on the scene with the invention of early writing systems like cuneiform. Written stories helped our society move beyond the limitations of our memories and geography. Where we as humans were once limited to passing down stories or knowledge that we could remember, this challenge would soon fade away after the birth of writing systems. 

While the above storytelling forms may look very different from one another, they share a common thread: the ability to connect us, inspire us, and teach us.

The Bridge to Early Literacy

Smiling children eagerly reach for a colorful stack of storybooks.

Today, the magic of storytelling continues to play a crucial role in early childhood development. For young children, stories are more than just fun; they’re the foundation of literacy and learning. Through storytelling, children begin to understand the structure of language, build their vocabulary, and develop the ability to comprehend and process information.

Think about the first stories we tell young children. Nursery rhymes, fairy tales, and picture books are all forms of storytelling that help build important skills. When kids hear a story, they learn to anticipate what comes next, identify patterns, and empathize with characters. They begin to associate words with meaning and sound with rhythm—all of which are key steps in learning to read and write.

Visual storytelling also has a profound impact on early literacy. Picture books, for example, allow children to make connections between images and words. The interplay of text and illustrations helps kids decode stories, boosting both their language and cognitive skills. In today’s digital world, animated storytelling and interactive media provide even more opportunities for engagement and learning.

One of the most beautiful aspects of storytelling is how it invites participation. Whether kids are repeating familiar phrases, answering questions about a story, or creating their own imaginative tales, storytelling fosters collaboration and creativity. These early experiences lay the groundwork for a lifetime of curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning.

Author Session at SBCSS Early Literacy Family Summit

That’s why I’m so honored to be part of the SBCSS Early Literacy Family Summit, where I had the privilege of leading the main author session as well as contributing as an author for the event. This event wasn’t just about reading—it was about igniting a passion for storytelling in families and children alike.

I believe storytelling is one of the greatest tools we have to nurture early literacy skills. It’s a way to help families bond, inspire young minds, and instill confidence in kids as they embark on their literacy journeys. My goal is to create an engaging, interactive experience that makes storytelling feel accessible and magical for everyone.

Whether it’s weaving tales from oral traditions, diving into written adventures, or exploring visual wonders, storytelling offers endless possibilities. And with its power to entertain, educate, and empower, it remains an essential part of our lives and learning.