6 reasons why stories are such a great vehicle for improving wellbeing and literacy

We talk about stories A LOT. It’s in our name, it’s kinda our thing!

But why?

Why do we think books and stories are such a great way to teach and learn about PSHE and wellbeing? What makes books so special? And what are the benefits of using them with children?

Let’s explore the reasons…

1. Stories create a distance

Talking about our own experiences or feelings can be difficult, particularly if they bring up negative emotions. It can feel too raw and too vulnerable to open up about big issues, through fear, lack of confidence or not knowing the right words.

Both adults and children can also misunderstand their own motivations for acting in the ways that they do, meaning it is difficult to analyze when something went wrong or what to do next time.

When we read about a character in a story, we often find it easier to notice patterns in their behaviour. We are guided through the character’s experiences, meaning their mistakes, successes and actions are easier to unpack.

This means we can analyze, process and understand the situation better than if it were happening directly to us – the story creates a distance that gives room for deeper understanding.

“After we read ‘The Colour Thief’ […] it was easier to say that I felt all grey when I was feeling really upset,” Pupil, Story Project ImpactEd Evaluation

2. It’s fun and memorable

Stories have been a method of entertaining for 1000s and 1000s of years. Whether oral or written, everyone has a story that they have loved and engaged with. Books and reading are a well established part of finding joy, for many of us.

Because they are enjoyable, stories are also very memorable. Our brains love to put information in to patterns and stories do just that! If, like me, you were taught the story method of remembering a list of information that you will know just what I mean.

The themes, actions and characters in a story, even ones with tricky or complex subject matter, can become easy to remember and boost children’s understanding of the topic.

3. Increased exposure to language and experience

Books are packed full of language and the more we read, the more we learn! Having a greater variety of vocabulary to explain different emotions, means we can explain how we feel and get the help we need.

Stories open our eyes to new cultures, backgrounds and ways of living. This helps foster tolerance and understanding and reduces misunderstandings and negative stereotyping.

Books are often referred to as ‘windows, mirrors, and sliding doors’ (Rudine Sims Bishop), meaning that the stories become portals to other places. Topics such as bullying are particularly good areas to teach using stories. Books allow us to see other people’s experiences and to build empathy for people of all walks of life.

“When we started talking about characters’ feelings, [pupils said] ‘happy’, ‘sad’, ‘angry’ […] but we’ve expanded on that. I do feel they have broadened their
vocabulary, especially from using the vocabulary poster. It’s helped them go a little bit deeper with their understanding.” Teacher, Story Project ImpactEd Evaluation

4. Stories as a mirror

Speaking of Bishop’s ‘windows, mirrors and sliding doors’ phrase, stories are also a reflection of ourselves. They help us to feel ‘seen’; reflecting our own culture, identity and validating our feelings. Having a diverse range of stories means that books are inclusive and represent us all.

Books can make us feel less alone, which fosters confidence and community. Seeing our own lives or situations reflected back to us in the pages of a book can be a very powerful experience.

“[The stories are] just an easy to easy to access vehicle for more hard-hitting topics because the story presents it in a one step removed from the children and from yourself, and it’s always a good starting point for discussion.” Teacher, Story Project ImpactEd Evaluation

5. Books are naturally mindful

Reading and listening to stories are calming and reflective activities. Children, and adults too, often find books to be moments of tranquility in an otherwise busy day. They are quiet and comforting; often evoking nostalgic memories of bedtime and home. In this way, books can be a great comfort.

Stories encourage and inspire thinking and so help children to become more reflective. Not to mention, the critical thinking skills they promote when talking about a complex topic!

6. A learning win!

Reading has a whole host of other benefits beyond the ones mentioned so far. What is more, reading is an activity that is already embedded in our classrooms – so using stories for PSHE and wellbeing learning is an easy transition.

Stories foster imagination and creativity, supporting children’s learning in other areas. They build connections, both between classmates and between subjects as well as encouraging richer discussion.

Interested in how The Story Project uses the magic of stories to teach wellbeing and literacy?