Telling stories is something everyone enjoys. For millennia, people have passed on traditions, legends, and historic events through the telling of stories. True storytelling does not make use of books; like the ancients, it is intended to convey an idea simply through the spoken word.

Many are interested in exploring the art of storytelling, but aren’t sure where to begin. If this interests you, here are some ideas on getting started.

1. Look into the stories you love or have heard, such as folktales. Many of those stories were told and re-told many times before being written down. And people still enjoy them today. Why? Look into what ties these stories together across generations. What makes them compelling? Why do children still enjoy these ancient stories? As you seek answers for these things, you can weave these universal elements into your storytelling.

2. Family stories are fun. Talk to your relatives and, if you have the means, do some genealogical research. Nearly everyone has at least one interesting character or story in their past. As you find these fascinating personalities, you can create stories about them or tell their true stories.

You might have family stories that have been passed down, too, that you might not have considered for storytelling fodder. Did your grandmother used to make remarks about certain incidents? Maybe your dad likes to joke with your uncle about something funny that happened to them when they were kids. Keep your ears open!

3. How about your own past? You can invent a character for your storytelling, and use incidents and insights from your own past to create adventures for your character. Or you can tell the story in the first person point of view (using “I”). Think about the lessons you’ve learned or funny, interesting things that have happened to you over the years. Turn these events into compelling stories.

4. Sign up for a storytelling course. This may be the most important thing you do as you embark on your own storytelling ventures. Local fairs and festivals may feature storytellers, or programs might be held at your local theater. Find out when storytelling is occurring in your community, and make a point to attend. If possible, get to know the storytellers and make connections; then you can talk to them about this ancient art.

You may find yourself amazed at the different styles of storytelling. Some people use props; others move around; still others stay still. You will see that there is no “right” way to do storytelling; the common thread is the ability to interest others and draw them in to your world. Exactly how you’ll do it is highly personal. But you’ll know it’s right by how easy it comes to you.

Are you worried about your baby crawling all over the house and injuring himself? As many parents will tell you, a household can be fraught with danger for young children. Once your baby becomes mobile, he or she will get curious and start touching this and that. Which can be dangerous. It’s your job to keep that crawling, walking, or running child safe from accidents. Let’s look at some tips.

Kitchen Safety – It’s really dangerous for a baby to be in the kitchen. The principal dangers come from hot appliances, and cupboards full of food. It’s good to install some cupboard locks, refrigerator latches, and stove shields to protect the kids.

Household Safety – OK, the first lesson in household safety for your baby? Yes, its those little electrical outlets. They are just the right height to attract crawling babies and toddlers. Make sure you get those outlet covers that plug in place or screw in over the switch plate.

Another important tip is to remember that children love to use what you’re using. So paper and scissors, CD players and stereos, cookware, and tools of all sorts have enormous appeal. Keep sharp objects away from your baby and provide him with child-safe versions of the things you use every day. Toy car phones, CD players, pots and pans all fit in this category.

Bathroom Safety – The bathroom floor, when slippery, is also very dangerous (even for adults). The bathtub is another hazard. I recommend that you watch over your kid very carefully when he or she is in the bathroom. Also, it’s advisable to get some latches that prevent your baby from lifting the toilet lid. Another tip to remember is to avoid using water that is too hot. Remember, baby skin is a lot more fragile than an adult’s.

Safety gates – The baby safety gate is an important baby proofing tool. This is an inexpensive baby product that can keep your little one from tumbling down a staircase or wandering into areas of the home that are not baby-safe. You can choose from pressure gates, hardware-mounted gates and customizable gates.

About the Author: Gary Hendricks, gary_hendricks@baby-product-guide.com Gary Hendricks is the editor of Baby-Product-Guide.com, a hobby site providing tips and tricks on selecting and buying the best baby products for your child.

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