What happens at a baby or toddler storytime class? We’re joined by Laura Baker of Debutots who’s here to explain what to expect at your very first storytime class with your child.
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What Is A Baby Storytime Class?
A baby storytime class is a wonderful way of introducing babies and toddlers to the world of stories by bringing them to life in an interactive and playful way. By using puppets, music and bubbles we’re able to engage little ones in the story so they can make visual links to words, sounds, emotions and tone of voice. Taking your baby or toddler to a storytelling class is an amazing way to boost their language skills and vocabulary from an early age.
What Does A Typical Storytime Session Look Like?
Our classes are usually around 30-45 minutes long depending on the age group. They include a combination of rhymes, dancing or movement to music and bubbles, followed by the story itself. Our storytime classes have a familiar welcome each week so that children recognise that the session is about to start and feel comfortable with the structure of the class.
The story, led by me or the class leader, is told together as a group using actions or sounds at key points in the journey with the characters from start to finish. This means the children (and grown ups) are part of the story too, bringing it to life with their own interpretation of what the character is doing or feeling. We don’t use books in our classes, meaning we bring stories to life in the imaginations of those listening and taking part.
What Are The Benefits of Baby Storytime Classes?
There are so many benefits to stories for babies and toddlers. Language and vocabulary is a key one. Often when babies are in a storytelling class they will be hearing certain words and sounds for the first time. We can encourage them to try playing with that sound when repetition is used throughout a story. That same repetition also builds confidence, as toddlers can recognise what is coming up and feel more comfortable to engage.
Imaginative roleplay develops empathy and allows babies and toddlers to explore a range of emotions in a safe space, the story space. We do all of this with fun and imagination. Stories can take us to far away worlds with adventures that are exciting and captivating. What’s not to love?
What Should I Bring To A Baby Or Toddler Storytime Class?
Storytelling classes can take place in libraries, village halls, soft play centres, nurseries and schools. Often the only thing you need to bring is your imagination. It might feel daunting to take part in an interactive story if you’ve not been before or might not know anyone in the group. But don’t worry, you can join in as much or as little as you like. You will still leave with lots of inspiration and ideas for your own storytelling at home.
What Should I Keep In Mind At A Storytime Class?
Little ones might not want to sit still for the whole story and that is fine too. You’d be surprised how much they take in even if they are on the move being inquisitive around the room. Often when you get home you’ll see or hear things from class you hadn’t expected them to absorb!
What Are Some Of My Favourite Stories From Running Storytime Classes?
One of my favourite things from running classes is seeing the growth in confidence of children who attend regularly. Not just in the class itself but the interactions/conversations we have before and after. I am lucky to visit several nurseries for classes each week. One little boy who isn’t quite talking yet knew I was there for Storytime by making a book with his hands as soon as I walked in the door. Those moments are so special.
I’m always amazed at the imagination of children too. As part of our classes for older preschoolers we ask the children to retell the story with their own thoughts and ideas. During a story about recycling recently, we turned some imaginary drinks cans into monster trucks and newspapers into paper aeroplanes and boats. It’s lovely seeing their imaginations lead the way.
What Do I Love About My Baby Storytime Classes, Debutots?
Debutots classes take place in nurseries, schools, in the community for parents and carers and in residential care homes for intergenerational sessions. I started my Debutots journey in April 2023 and offer classes across Central and West Leeds.
What I love about Debutots is that the stories are original and unique. We deliver the story orally without the use of a book so we can really make it our own. There’s a different story every single week with some fabulous characters and themes. So whilst they are entertaining and full of fun, they’re educational too.
I also run monthly Sunday morning classes and it’s lovely to see both parents and sometimes grandparents with their children coming along. When parents work during the week it’s lovely for them to be part of a storytelling class as a family, making memories together.
Thanks To Laura Baker – Debutots
Laura Baker is the owner of Debutots Leeds West and Central. She’s also mummy to a 5-year-old little superstar, who is her inspiration. Her daughter taught her the importance of being in the moment and getting lost in your imagination – so much so that Laura took the leap from her previous career of 18 busy years in aviation to the wonderful world of Early Years drama. She launched Debutots in April 2023 and hasn’t looked back since.
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