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Starting with Stories - Building a Sense of Community

by Linda Torgerson
May/June 1996
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Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/starting-with-stories-building-a-sense-of-community/5010955/

Last week my preschoolers and I shared a new picture book at circle time. After reading Oram and Varley's Badger's Bring Something Party, I asked the children to tell me what they would bring to such a party. Later, in the midst of dramatic play, Daniel handed me a bulging envelope and said, "It's an invitation to my party." I asked, "Is it a 'bring something' party?" He responded, "Yes, and it's right now, so hurry." I chose some tiny paper hearts for my contribution and joined the ten children who had gathered around the playroom climber. One child presented a teapot and cups from our housekeeping area, another a plastic squid and crab to provide our snack. Others offered dress-up clothes and flowers.

I know there will be other "bring something" parties. I've set out my tape recorder so we'll have music at the next one. Good stories can evoke rich dramatic play that is repeated in many variations whether adults set the stage or it happens spontaneously.

Because of my own attraction to children's literature, I rely on books and stories to build a sense of belonging. When the whole group ...

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