| · | Know something about your listener’s age, attention span, interests, etc. | |
| · | When telling the Bible story, use your Bible. | |
| · | Personalize your stories; Jesus always did. | |
| · | Maintain eye contact with your listeners. | |
| · | Avoid memorizing word for word. Use your own words and phrases. | |
| · | Live with your story and let it become yours. | |
| · | Use language that children and adults can understand. (Avoid symbolism with preschoolers) | |
| · | Lead into the story naturally. Avoid saying, “Girls and boys, I want you to listen because I am going to tell you a story.” | |
| · | Using objects and pictures during the story may distract rather than enhance unless the story is a dramatization which requires the use of objects. | |
| · | Prepare, Practice, Pray then tell the story. | |
| · | When you finish, STOP !!! Avoid moralizing; let the story speak for itself. | |
| · | Listen to other storytellers to sharpen your skills. | |