The things that I’m always sure to do:

*Use a variety of voices and voice ranges – it helps keep their interest and helps them visualize what’s going on

*When possible, get them involved with small body movement – holding their hand up to their eyes to search, patting the floor when someone runs, flexing their muscles to show that someone’s strong, etc. PreK-ers tend to still be very kinesthetic/hands on (on average) and this helps them understand what’s going on.

*Facial expressions – use them 🙂 They love it!

*Start out in a very pleasant tone of voice (change it if the characters or story warrants it, but don’t scare them), and speak somewhat slowly and very clearly. They often don’t have the language skills to really understand when adults start talking quickly (especially if it’s a new story), and you’ll lose their focus. They will most likely be learning from what you’re saying from all angles – seeing/moving/hearing – and this takes their whole focus. If you speak quickly, you’ll lose them.

*If one or more of them wants to sit on your lap or put a hand on your arm/leg, let them. These kids also often need to touch (tactile learners) to absorb information. Very common for young children.

*If they start getting a bit rowdy, lower your voice to just above a whisper all of a sudden. It will get their attention and they’ll quiet down quickly to not miss what you’re saying. (You may want to ad lib for a few seconds while doing this so they don’t miss something out of the story.)

*Always remember, they’re young kids 🙂 So much of what’s happening around them is new to them, a chance for them to discover, and they tend to be excited to do so. If they get off track, don’t get frustrated, just real them back in with a smile and give them a chance to ask questions and share afterward.

*Be sure to practice the book a few times before you read it, and get your voice/facial expressions/movements/tone down before you get in there. My parents are/were 4th grade teachers, and they even do this with their students. Gotta say, my 9yo has always loved it when Grandpa and Grandma read to him, and insists on a read aloud from me every night, even though he’s fully capable of reading the books himself. It’s just fun!

That’s what I can think of right now, someone else may have other ideas 🙂 Good luck!

(If you are reading a book, of course be sure everyone can see and turn the pages quickly)

Clarity of your voice

An understanding of what makes the story interesting to kids

A love of the story

Don’t read anything too simple, they can understand a lot

Something unique that you bring to the telling.

Father of two and teacher…