Telling God’s big story in a way that engages the hearts and minds of children and that helps them know that they are part of God’s redemptive narrative is key to their forming a strong faith. That’s what makes storytellers so important!
Expectations
- Serve a minimum of one weekend/one service a month. Note: Because it takes time to prepare a story, many storytellers serve at multiple services when they serve.
- Follow Creek Kids contributor guidelines for check-in and dress code.
- Prepare and practice stories ahead of time so that they are presented effectively.
- Contact the elementary pastor or the elementary service lead as soon as possible if you are unable to attend one of your scheduled services.
How To Be An Effective Storyteller
Prepare
- Two weeks before you are scheduled to serve as storyteller you will receive the lesson script. Read the script over multiple times before you serve.
- In addition to reading the script, look up the scripture passages that are referenced in the story. Make note of what has happened before the story and what will happen next. What do we learn about God in this story?
- Check the curriculum to see what stories surround the lesson you will be presenting.
- Ask the elementary pastor about questions that arise as you read & prepare.
Pray
- Pray for the children and leaders who will be hearing this story.
- Pray that God would help you in your preparations.
- Pray that God would use your teaching for His purposes and glory.
Practice
- Practice reading the script aloud until you are familiar and comfortable with it.
- Practice re-telling the story using words and phrases that are natural to you; be sure you cover the key points, but don’t worry about memorizing the script.
- Creativity is ok! If you think of a prop or special effect that would make your storytelling more engaging, let the elementary pastor know before Thursday.
- Check your timing: most stories should run between 15-20 minutes.
Participate
- Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled service time to check microphones, props, and other set up.
- Attend the team huddle and share a key point from the story.
- Interact with kids as they arrive and participate in worship when possible. (If you’re nervous and need this time to get water, review notes or pray, that’s ok!)
- Have fun! Leave opportunities for the kids to interact with you as you tell the story. These are often included in the scripts, and you can also add opportunities for more (or less) engagement based upon the children’s responses.