A recent study (2020) shows that “when storytelling is combined with play-based activities, it can provide an effective stimulus for early literacy.”
A team from the University of Twente, in The Netherlands, recently reported the findings after examining several classrooms of children aged 5-6 years.
The team compared a classroom of students following ‘regular’ literacy activities with a class whose literacy development was supported with storytelling and associated play-based activities along with a third classroom that engaged in digital storytelling and activities.
“The findings showed that both storytelling conditions (classrooms) significantly enhanced children’s literacy and digital literacy skills”.
The team of Maureen, van der Meji and de Jong found that “structured storytelling activities provide a viable and valuable way to enhance literacy and digital literacy in early childhood education.”
Research: Enhancing Storytelling Activities to Support Early (Digital) Literacy Development in Early Childhood Education – Irena Y. Maureen, Hans van der Meji & Ton de Jung (Mar 2020).
John Walters