Storytelling is one of the oldest and most powerful tools we have for teaching and connection.
From traditional myths to bedtime favourites, stories have always helped children make sense of the world around them. At Koru Kids Early Learning Centre, storytelling is more than just entertainment – it’s a daily practice that helps our tamariki grow into thoughtful, kind, and capable learners.
Stories shape young minds in profound ways. They model positive behaviours, build empathy and offer children a safe space to explore emotions and ideas. Through storytelling, our kaiako (teachers) guide children in understanding core values, celebrating culture, and developing the social and emotional skills they need to thrive.
Why Storytelling Is So Effective for Young Children
Stories spark curiosity and invite imagination, which is why they hold such a special place in early childhood learning. When tamariki hear a story, they’re not just listening to words – they’re picturing scenes, recognising feelings, and drawing connections to their own experiences.
Research shows that storytelling helps children:
- Build vocabulary and early language skills
- Strengthen memory and comprehension
- Understand complex emotions in a developmentally appropriate way
Because stories feel familiar and safe, they also help children express themselves and process big feelings, all while learning how others might feel or act in a given situation.
Teaching Core Values Through Storytelling
Values like empathy, honesty, responsibility and kindness come to life through characters and their choices. For example, a simple tale about sharing can open up a meaningful conversation about fairness and friendship.
At Koru Kids, our teachers choose stories that gently introduce these values and follow up with questions like:
- “How do you think that character felt?”
- “What could they have done differently?”
This helps children think critically and internalise the messages. When tamariki can identify with a story, they’re more likely to remember and apply what they’ve learned.
Cultural and Moral Lessons from Storytelling
Aotearoa has a rich tradition of storytelling, and we embrace this at Koru Kids by incorporating Māori myths, legends, and waiata into our curriculum. These stories deepen our tamariki’s connection to Te Ao Māori, nurture respect for tikanga, and build a shared sense of identity.
We also explore stories from different cultures and backgrounds to reflect the diverse families in our centre. This inclusive approach fosters understanding, respect, and a sense of belonging for every child.
Storytelling at Koru Kids ELC
Storytelling takes many forms across our centre. In the Te Aroha room (0-2 years), soft picture books and song-based stories help introduce rhythms, sounds and simple ideas. In Mahira (2-3.5 years), puppets, props and dramatic play allow for deeper emotional connection and imaginative exploration. In Pakiki (3.5-5 years), tamariki start creating and retelling their own stories, often using drawings or dramatic play.
Our kaiako use storytelling not only as a tool for language and literacy but also as a foundation for building confidence, creativity and social awareness.
How Parents Can Use Storytelling at Home
Parents and whānau are a child’s first storytellers. Whether you’re reading a book, making up a bedtime story or sharing a memory from your own childhood, you’re creating meaningful moments that strengthen connection and communication.
Try choosing books that explore values like fairness, gratitude or courage. Ask open-ended questions such as:
- “Why do you think they did that?”
- “What would you have done?”
These conversations help children learn to think deeply, express ideas, and reflect on their choices in real life.
A Story Worth Sharing
At Koru Kids Early Learning Centre, storytelling is woven into our learning journey every day. It helps tamariki build empathy, understand values, and feel seen and heard. We believe every child deserves to be part of a story that honours who they are and who they’re becoming.
Want to learn more about how we use storytelling to support your child’s development?
Contact us today or explore our services to discover what makes our centre so special.