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More Than A Story
Children's stories contain so much more than you may think. The learning potential for your children goes beyond the printed content. While reading to your children is beneficial for their imagination and understanding of the world around them, you can multiply their learning capabilities by asking them questions as you go along. Here are a few examples of questions that will help engage their growing minds in the story as well as give them a deeper understanding of its meaning and significance.
Questions you can ask:
• What do you think is going to happen next?
• How do you think (character name) is feeling?
• What would you do if you were in this situation?
• How do you think God feels about what is happening?
• What was your favorite part of the story?
The possibilities are endless. You can base your questions on the words that the characters say or the pictures that the illustrator provides. It is also a good idea to ask a question about the story the following day. This helps ensure the information they learn is retained long-term. I am not suggesting that reading become nothing but a heavy mental activity for your children. Reading is not only meant for education but also for leisure and enjoyment. So, if you realize that the questions you are asking become burdensome to your children, then simply finish reading without asking any further questions.
End your story time by asking questions about what they see and hear in a story, you will not only help their minds develop on a variety of different levels, but you will also come to know your children a little better in the process. So, while it's a wonderful experience to have your children sit near you while you read them a bedtime story; why not engage them in critical thinking skills at the same time.