Props and expressive narration bring stories to life

For children in the early years of school, listening to a story can be an active experience. Apeejay School, Saket, gave students of Classes II to V that opportunity through an interactive storytelling session led by Ms Pritika Khandpur, a resource person from Hindustan Times (HT). Her use of props and expressive narration made the session lively, and the students joined in with enthusiasm.

Ms Khandpur’s presentation brought more than her voice to the storytelling. The props added a visual element, while her expressive narration helped carry the session. For the children, this meant there was something to watch as well as listen to. Their participation was an important part of the experience, giving the session its interactive character.

The students responded enthusiastically and thoroughly enjoyed the session. That response matters in an activity built around listening and participation. A storyteller can present a story, but the exchange also depends on the children being willing to take part.

The use of props was especially suited to a group spanning Classes II to V. It gave the narration another way to hold the children’s interest, alongside Ms Khandpur’s delivery. Together, these elements shaped a session that the school described as both joyful and enriching. The account does not need a grand lesson added to it: the children listened, participated, and enjoyed the story.

Such sessions give young learners a chance to experience storytelling as a shared activity. Here, the focus was on the connection between the narrator and her audience.

Ms Khandpur’s expressive approach and the students’ eager participation made that connection visible throughout the session. It was a simple occasion, but one that showed how a story, told with care and opened up to its listeners, can hold a room of children.