This morning I was thinking about my story time program at the National Steinbeck Center on April 7, 2012. Again, I had a great time, and I believe the kids and parents did, too! To be honest, there's really nothing 'scarier' as a performer to think that no one will show up. Okay.. not scary, but it does make me worry a bit.When I started out with Story Time Adventures in 2010 I was so afraid no one would show up to the local coffeehouse where I was performing, but thankfully, about 70 people showed up on the first day. Wow. I am still grateful to Mars Hill Coffeehouse in Hollister, Ca., for allowing me to get my feet wet and start my journey on my entrepreneurial venture.
And.. yes, I do get paid for what I do. There are times when I will offer up my program for free, but that's more for organizations such as women's shelters and for a local group home for kids.
I still think back to this past Christmas which is when I appeared as Mrs. Claus. I was booked to do several assemblies at a local elementary school where a friend works. She was kind enough to suggest my program to her principal, and she was instrumental in getting me the booking.
But, I heard through my husband that her husband commented, "Wow, I wish I could get paid (xxx) to read to kids!" My fee really isn't that exhorbitant, by any means. I know assembly entertainers who get paid WAY more than I ever charge. But, if I take a step back and look at it from his perspective, I might say to myself, "Why would a school/mall/library, etc., hire someone to read books?" Good question, really.
So, let me explain. Yes, most definitely, anyone can read to their children, or to any child, for that matter. I hope they are doing it. I hope they are volunteering numerous hours to come in and read to all grades, not just the younger ones. Kids need to be read to in order to understand our language, patterns, thoughts, and to use their imagination! But, do you go to school and read to your sons'/daughters' classes? I used to when my sons were younger. That's how I found out I had an interest, as well as a knack, for doing this. And doing it quite well.
There's so much to reading out loud. It's not just reciting what's on the written page. It has to do with tone, inflection, and having fun! Some people don't realize how important it is to show the pictures while you're reading the book. It might feel a little awkward, but it's what kids like. Also, slow down! There's no need to rush through a book. Use your voice, make the characters talk in different voices, and bring it to life! Choose books with great illustrations, but little text on each page. I've had people offer me books at their parties, etc., to read to their kids, but they are often long and wordy, and kids get bored!!!
Yesterday at the Steinbeck Museum I received an affirmation that I am doing a good job. One woman came up to me and began talking with me after the program. Her first question was, "Where do you get your books?" I told her they come from all over--the library, book stores, grandparents--and I've even found a few in the bargain bin at our local grocery store.
Then she asked her real question. She asked, "Are kids listening to you because of the books you read, or because of the way you do it?" She then continued, "I read to my daughter, but she won't sit still and listen to me!" She then told me she'd seen me at the local California Welcome Center in Salinas, CA, at Christmas, when I was there as Mrs. Claus. She said she liked the books I'd read, which was great.
To be honest, I'm not trying to brag or be boastful in any fashion. I just love reading to kids, and I hope you do, too!
If you are in California on the 10th of June, I will be appearing at the Monterey Bay Aquarium for World Oceans Day, and I will also be appearing at Santana Row in San Jose, CA. This next school year I'm going to offer Skype sessions for schools across the country. I hope you will check out my site, www.storytimeadventures.wetpaint.com.
Keep Reading!
Julie Engelhardt
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