Story Time Effective Practice (STEP), developed by the authors, is an approach that articulates the link between child development theory and story times. This important resource shows how presenters can use STEP to craft a story time that is effective for mixed-age groups and adheres to best practices for emotional, social, physical, and cognitive support. In this book, Ghoting and Klatt, both early literacy experts,

Offer more than 30 complete ready-to-use story times appropriate for new-borns to children age 5, along with extension activities
Show how STEP relates to emotional, social, cognitive, and physical development
Explain how story time materials and activities directly connect to language and literacy development
Include preparation, planning, and performance tips, plus guidance for interacting with parents and caregivers
Provide lists of recommended additional resources, including organizations, websites, and sources for story time time activity ideas

This book is a must-have guide for story time presenters, preschool teachers, child care providers, and parents of young children.