Storytelling is a tradition, one that is usually passed down through the generations from elder to youth. The art of this tradition has helped children develop listening skills, improve their reading comprehension, and encourage them to engage their imagination to visualize the story in their heads. It creates a connection, stimulates community, and fosters awareness of values and virtues. It is not only a beneficial exercise for our youth; it also creates a bridge for strong and caring relationships between older adults and younger generations.
Spellbinders, a volunteer non-profit organization is aimed at keeping the art of storytelling and that connection alive. Engaging the youth and creating lasting effects that ripple through the lives of the storytellers and the children alike. There is something almost magical about watching the eyes of a child light up in enthusiasm while their imagination paints a picture for them. It is equally as rewarding for the storytellers themselves, offering connection, improving memory, and honoring them as guardians of wisdom and keepers of the story. Spellbinder Barb Wintermute recalls that connection and community offering her peace and light in a dark time. “It shines such a bright light into the lives of everyone involved, and the kids don’t know it impacts us just as much”
Witnessing the spellbinders in action is truly inspiring. As reading to our youth has gone by the wayside, in favor of shows and touchscreens; the storytellers offer a gift that encourages active investment into the art of listening. In a world of instant gratification, they are given an opportunity to delay that and let the story unfold. To be stimulated in a different way, to lengthen their attention span over the course of the year and help them learn that good things take time. The average attention span of a 2nd grader used to be 18-20 min, it is now down to just 80 seconds, storytelling aims to help bridge that gap. Skyview teachers view the storytellers as key in helping students see the benefits of imagining a story in your mind and realizing your imagination has a huge impact on your life and your views. They even view it as restful for some kids that may struggle to read, bringing them a chance to sit back and imagine the story instead of focusing on the words individually! The teachers have become advocates in bringing the storytellers into the classroom and they have witnessed firsthand how large the ripple goes.
For the Storytellers themselves, it is something they look forward to every month. “I have been in spellbinders for 10 years. I used to be a teacher. And I get to walk into their classrooms with a story that I got to pick, one that teaches a lesson and encourages thought. We go generally every month and at the end of the year, I always ask “what stories do you think I can tell next year, and they always remember every story. The kids remember the stories. They didn’t look at a written word, they heard it once, and still, it’s in their heads.” Says storyteller Diane Campbell. To reach another through the art of storytelling provides a meaningful connection built on respect and admiration. The lasting impressions create a ripple of impact that goes beyond the classroom.
The Spellbinders are always welcoming new volunteers to become involved with the program and help them build a community that brings joy and light when it is needed most! If you feel the call, you can become involved at Spellbinders.org!