ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the important role that stories play in young children's lives including the many benefits the act of storytelling has on learning and development for indigenous children in particular. It describes the concept that for indigenous communities, stories are a crucial part of cultural continuity and heritage. The chapter argues that storytelling should be a privileged pedagogical choice of teachers in schools for indigenous students. It discusses how planning learning and teaching around stories has many benefits for young children but is particularly important for young indigenous children. While stories are important for all age groups, many have noted its critical importance for young children's development, cultural understanding and finding their place in the world. Stories and storytelling have been an age old tradition across communities and cultures. Stories act as a vehicle by which cultural practices and traditions are maintained over time but also equally important for young children's development.
