I'd like to think I keep up with the world of storytelling, but this one sneaked up on me. Apparently, the vernal equinox each year (here in the northern hemisphere) is also World Storytelling Day. Who knew?
Here's what Wikipedia says about the day:
World Storytelling Day is a global celebration of the art of oral storytelling. It is celebrated every year on the spring equinox in the northern hemisphere, the first day of autumn equinox in the southern. On World Storytelling Day, as many people as possible tell and listen to stories in as many languages and at as many places as possible, during the same day and night. Participants tell each other about their events in order to share stories and inspiration, to learn from each other and create international contacts. The significance in the event lies in the fact that it is the first global celebration of storytelling of its kind, and has been important in forging links between storytellers often working far apart from each other. It has also been significant in drawing public and media attention to storytelling as an art form.
Be a good parent tonight:
All you need to do is to tell your child a riveting bedtime story!
First, we suggest you make a mask or two and play charade;
Teach a few new words in passing to improve the vocabulary;
En route, check the pronunciation and spelling;
And the parts of speech, if he or she is ready.
Initiate your child into drawing and colouring;
A bit of GK wouldn’t do any harm;
While at it, you might as well teach a rhyme!
Give it a once over to see that the child has understood the story.
And before you tuck your child into bed and say, ‘Good night!’
a friendly game of quiz or crossword puzzle may be in order.
All within the covers of a series of storybooks, in a smashing new format!