*Act out the story *American Sign Language (if you know it or can verify it) or motions that fit your story's action *Chants (already in the story or added) *Cumulative tales (assign parts or let the entire audience join you) *Improvise from audience suggestions *Repetition *Rhythm instruments *Songs (existing or you create) *Sound effects including animal noises *String stories or origami or puppet chorus

Audience participation can be one of the best ways to get an audience of mixed ages pulled into a storytelling program. One caution: once the insecurity of adolescence begins they can be the toughest group to involve. It's easier for pre-teens & teens to "act cool." In a large group of all ages, they may accept participation if they're told the stories are a good way to entertain young children while babysitting or otherwise left to amuse someone younger. A few adults may also be reserved, but will usually accept your request for their help. Preschool through approximately age 10 are the prime candidates for participating & they, too, can enjoy the easy way this lets them learn the stories & pass them on to friends & family.

Books that can help you start involving your audience: *Baltuck, Naomi - Crazy Gibberish and Other Story Hour Stretches *Carlson, Bernice Wells - Listen! and Help Tell the Story *Fujita, Hiroko (with Fran Stallings) - Stories to Play with * HINT * Anthologies with the word "nursery" in it work for preschoolers *Hutchinson, Veronica - anthologies including stories for the youngest *MacDonald, Margaret Read - anthologies that include notes for storytelling *Miller, Teresa compiler (and Norma Livo, editor) - Joining In *Tashjian, Virginia - Juba This and Juba That (also) - With a Deep Sea Smile

Stories to Do	Making Stories	MacScouter

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