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Many parents spend time searching for the best educational tools for their children. However, they often miss one learning activity, which has been around for generations: storytelling.
Author Lori J. has always focused on storytelling in her life’s work. After more than 30 years in early childhood education and 14 years operating her own preschool, she has seen firsthand how stories shape young minds.
Today, she creates children’s books inspired by everyday experiences, nature, and family moments. Her Squeak, The Little Grey Squirrelseries has been loved worldwide for its beautiful narration and nostalgic tone.
Lori’s goal is not simply to entertain children. She wants to help parents and educators create meaningful learning experiences through story time.
As Lori says, “I believe in ‘Terrific Twos,’ not ‘Terrible Twos’!” This positive view of early childhood guides her work and her advice to families. And not only does she encourage this, but she has also created her work in line with this goal, so parents don’t have to look much further.
Research shows that reading and storytelling help children develop language skills, strengthen emotional understanding, improve attention, and create stronger bonds with caregivers. Interactive storytelling can even increase vocabulary development and engagement among young children.
Lori J Thompson’s Resources for Parents and Educators
Lori J. has shared practical guidance that parents and educators can apply immediately.
Her suggestions focuses on helping adults make story time more meaningful and enjoyable.She believes parents only need to incorporate small habits to make a difference.
She encourages parents to
Allow reading in your daily routine, even for 10 to 15 minute
- Use different voices to bring characters to life.
- Ask questions during the story.
- Let children turn the pages.
- Connect story themes to everyday experiences.
- Encourage children’s observations and curiosity.
Why Story Time Builds More Than Reading Skills
Many people think story time is mainly about learning words. Lori says it goes beyond that.
Stories help children understand emotions. They learn about friendship, kindness, courage, communication skills, and problem-solving through characters and situations they can relate to. Shared reading also creates valuable bonding experiences between children and caregivers.
This is also why she encourages adults to enjoy the experience alongside the child.
Bringing Learning to Life Through Everyday Adventures
One feature that makes Lori’s work truly unique is her use of real-life inspiration.
Her stories come from experiences with her grandchildren and the squirrels that visit her backyard. These are familiar settings that all children can connect to what they see in the world around them.
Lori has added a colouring book to the experience, along with a second part titledSqueak Meets New Friends.
This reflects another important storytelling principle. Children learn best when they can relate new ideas to experiences they already understand.
Parents can apply the same idea at home. After reading a story about animals, they can visit a park. After reading about friendship, they can discuss acts of kindness they observed during the day.
This is how learning becomes a part of everyday life rather than something limited to a classroom.
Supporting Educators in the Classroom
Lori’s background as a preschool owner and head teacher also gives her insight into classroom learning.
Her books and storytelling techniques can support:
- Circle time activities.
- Nature-themed learning units.
- Social-emotional learning discussions.
- Vocabulary development.
- Creative expression activities.
- Fine motor skill development through coloring activities.
In classrooms, these techniques can enable improved vocabulary, comprehension, attention, and early literacy outcomes.
A Positive Message for Modern Parents
Lori offers parents an encouraging outlook on parenting. Raising young children can be overwhelming, and parents are pulled in different directions with advice being thrown at them from everywhere.
Lori does not claim to have all the answers. But she offers practical ideas to create opportunities for connection, celebrate learning, and enjoy the journey.
“Every child deserves stories that make them feel brave, curious, and loved. That’s what I hope to give with every book I write,” she says.
Inspiring the Next Generation Through Stories
Author Lori J. creates her stories with the intention that children learn and grow, and that families and educators gain insights. To her, story time is about building confidence, encouraging imagination, developing language, and creating moments of connection that children remember long after the book is closed.
Lori reminds parents and educators that one of the most effective teaching tools is also one of the simplest: sitting down with a child and sharing a story.
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