Stories have been an integral part of childhood for generations. From bedtime tales to classroom adventures, storytelling for kids is more than just entertainment—it’s a powerful tool for emotional and mental wellbeing. Through our sessions at Mind Marvels, we believe in giving children the tools to navigate their emotions, and storytelling plays a crucial role in that journey.

Want to learn more about how Mind Marvels supports children’s well-being? Explore our sessions and resources here, and discover how we help develop children’s vocabulary for emotional literacy, which helps them express their feelings effectively and grow their minds!

Why storytelling for kids matters

Storytelling helps children make sense of the world around them. Whether through books, oral stories, or imaginative play, stories encourage emotional expression, build confidence, and create a safe space for children to explore their feelings. Plus, let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a good story, especially when it involves talking animals or heroic teddy bears?

Here’s why storytelling for kids is a wonderful tool for supporting children’s wellbeing:

1. Encourages emotional understanding

Stories allow children to see emotions in action. A character experiencing nervousness before a big event or learning to manage frustration teaches children that their own feelings are normal. By identifying with characters, children can develop empathy and learn healthy ways to express their emotions. Bonus: it might even help them express why they really don’t want to eat their broccoli.

2. Boosts confidence and self-expression

Encouraging children to create their own stories helps them develop their voice. Whether it’s making up a tale, drawing a picture story, or role-playing, storytelling empowers children to share their thoughts and feelings in a creative way. Plus, who knows? You might have the next great author in your midst (or at least a very dramatic storyteller at bedtime).

3. Provides comfort and reassurance

Familiar stories can be a source of comfort. Repetition of favourite books or family stories gives children a sense of security, especially during times of change. Hearing about characters overcoming challenges reassures children that they too can handle difficult emotions or situations—just like how the three little pigs managed to outwit that pesky wolf!

4. Encourages connection

Sharing stories strengthens relationships. Whether at home, in school, or during a Mind Marvels session, storytelling builds connections between children and the adults who support them. Listening and engaging in storytelling helps children feel heard, valued, and understood—plus, you might get some unexpected plot twists from their wild imaginations!

The magic of storytelling is an empowering tool!

How to use storytelling for kids to support wellbeing

It’s important to us at Mind Marvels that we encourage simple and fun ways to integrate storytelling into children’s lives. Here are some ideas:

• Use books as conversation starters – After reading a story, ask children how they think the characters felt and what they might do in a similar situation.
• Encourage children to tell their own stories – Give them a few prompts, such as “Once upon a time, a very brave child found a…”.
• Act out emotions – Role-playing different emotions through storytelling can help children recognise and manage their own feelings.
• Make up bedtime stories together – Taking turns to add to a story makes for a creative and calming bedtime routine. Plus, it might just delay bedtime a little longer!

Bringing stories to life with Mind Marvels

We use storytelling as a tool in our wellbeing sessions to help children develop emotional resilience. Through engaging activities and discussions, we support children in understanding their emotions in a fun and interactive way.

Storytelling for kids isn’t just about words—it’s about connection, imagination, and learning. By incorporating stories into everyday life, we can help children feel more confident, supported, and emotionally secure.

The magic of storytelling is an empowering tool!

Want to learn more? Click here to explore how Mind Marvels supports children’s wellbeing by tapping into kids’ creativity and more!