Storytelling

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The text for this topic is copyright Parenting SA, Government of South Australia.

"Okay Karii, bed time now!"

"Mummy, tell me a story unna."

"Alright then, jump into bed!"

Storytelling is a very important part of our culture

A long time ago our old people told a lot of stories ...

• stories of how things were made.
• how the animals grew or changed
• how people lived and moved around
• they told stories of why the birds sang, or why they changed their colours, and why the stars shine at night
• how people got their food or where the waterholes could be found.

They told these stories to pass on the knowledge and understandings that our people needed to know in order to survive in this country, long ago.

Today we need these same stories to help us understand and enjoy the differences in lifestyles and traditions of our people. It will help us to know the stories, the traditions and songs of our culture.

It is good for us to know this and it will be good for us to pass this knowledge on to our kids. This will help us to learn and respect ourselves and others.

We can take in these messages about other lifestyles and behaviour, and then learn responsible ways of doing things, and to understand why things are like they are.

• It is good for kids to play outside and take in fresh air.
• To listen to the sounds of the world around them.
• To hear the singing of the birds, or the sound of the wind in the trees.

What do our kids need?

• All kids need to talk, to play, to daydream, to read and to be told stories.
• Stories are important because they help kids cope with lots of the feelings and problems that they have.
• You can help kids carry on the tradition of our culture by telling the stories you remember from your childhood.
• Talk to your kids using your language and encourage them to use the words. This helps build their self esteem and confidence. It helps them develop a sense of belonging.
• Tell them stories of our Aboriginal history.

By doing some of these things you can help your kids to know who they are and to know of their Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Heritage. They will do well in having this time with you.

These things might help

So when your little kids or even your big kids ask you to tell them a story, you can begin by:

• telling them some of the Dreaming stories
• teaching them to use some of our languages
• spending time with them to have fun and to explore things outside
• telling them stories about other family members
• teaching them some of the games you played as a kid
• singing some of the songs you remember
• teaching them by what you do as well as what you tell them.

These places might be able to help you

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services 6205 4798
• Barnardos Parenting and Outreach Program 6241 5466
• Child and Family Centres -
  Tuggeranong 6207 8228
  Gungahlin 6207 1020
• Gugan Gulwan Youth Aboriginal Corporation 6231 9555
• Lifeline 13 11 14
• Parentline 6287 3833
• Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Service 6284 6220

ACT Govt Publication No 08/0618 May 08 (Revised 0806)