Training members of minority language groups to write listening stories

Some minority language groups in Thailand are diligently working to create a collection of stories that can be read to four- and five-year-old children in mother-tongue kindergartens, early-childhood-care centers or at home. Local language speakers are receiving training regarding the process of writing stories that will interest young children. They are becoming aware that stories written in their own language can help young children develop an appreciation for their language as well as help develop listening, speaking, imaginative and creative thinking skills. This paper discusses the nature of the listening story, reports on the process of conducting writers' workshops and suggests potential challenges participants may have in writing these kinds of stories.