In this episode of “Stories That Stick,” Laura and Ms. Ashley chat about storytelling and how it supports children to learn about the world around them. Ashley is THE early childhood enthusiast and creator of Nguzo Babies. She’s dedicated to exposing children to new cultures and languages through storytelling and puppetry. Together Laura and Ashley explore how storytelling can build connections and teach important social concepts to kids.

Highlights:

1. Continuous Learning: Ashley shares about the importance of cultural respect in language learning and how adults must shift their perspective on teaching.
2. Authenticity: Laura and Ashley discuss why children need to be exposed to different cultures and how to do this with authentic resources and stories.
3. Fostering Understanding: At the heart of all social studies is supporting others in celebrating diverse stories, background, and cultures. Through puppetry and character development, Ashley shares strategies to foster understanding and compassion with children.

If you have been looking for ways to build more cultures and social studies into your early learning environment, this episode is just what you need! Tune in to this episode to learn about Nguzo Babies and the ideas behind how puppetry and cultural exploration helps children to connect with diverse backgrounds and languages.

Connect with Laura: @little.stories.that.stick & website

Free guidebook ‘Culturally Responsive & Inclusive Storytelling’: Download here!

Connect with Ashley: @NguzoBabies, Nguzo Babies YouTube Channel & Nguzobabies.com

Learn more on teaching Social Studies with Young Children: Anti-Bias Education for Young Children and Ourselves by Louise Derman-Sparks