Start with a bang. Maybe a mysterious event like a strange light in the sky. It grabs the reader's attention right away.
You could begin with an interesting character in a difficult situation. For example, a young girl lost in a big city she doesn't know. Then describe her feelings of fear and confusion, which makes the reader want to know what will happen next. Also, using vivid language from the start helps, like 'The cold wind sliced through her like a knife as she stood alone on the empty street.'
Use vivid descriptions. Instead of saying 'the house was big', say 'the sprawling mansion loomed over the landscape, its gargoyle - adorned roof reaching for the sky'. This makes the story come alive in the reader's mind. Also, develop your characters well. Give them flaws and strengths so the readers can relate to them.
Create interesting characters. Give them distinct personalities, quirks, and goals. Readers will be more engaged if they care about the characters. Also, add some conflict, whether it's internal (a character's struggle with their own fears) or external (a fight against a villain or a difficult situation).
One way is to focus on the most interesting characters in the real story. Develop them fully, give them unique voices and personalities. Another way is to use vivid descriptions of the settings. If it's a real - life place, describe it in a way that makes the reader feel like they are there. Also, create a strong narrative arc. Even though it's based on a real story, you can structure it like a fictional story with a beginning, middle, and end that builds tension and has a satisfying resolution.
You can start with a mystery. For example, 'Once upon a time, a strange object appeared in the middle of the village square. No one knew where it came from or what it was for.' This makes the reader want to know more. Another way is to introduce a conflict right away, like 'Once upon a time, a young prince was about to be overthrown by a powerful usurper.'
Use vivid descriptions. For instance, describe the gloomy setting in great detail, like a dark and empty house with creaking floors. This can immediately set a sad mood.
Create a sense of mystery. Drop some hints or foreshadowing about something strange or important that will happen later in the story.
Use vivid language. For example, instead of saying 'the dog ran', say 'the energetic dog sprinted'.
You need a unique and interesting idea as a start. Add well-developed characters that readers can relate to. Also, a compelling plot with twists and turns keeps the readers hooked.
You need a compelling plot. Think of something unique and interesting that will draw readers in. Also, create relatable and complex characters that people can care about.
Involve the kids in every step. Let them decide the story's ending. And while writing, make sound effects related to the story. For example, if there's a thunderstorm in the story, make a 'boom' sound. You can also bring in props. If the story is about a birthday party, bring in a small fake cake. This makes the story writing session more like a play and really engages the kindergarten kids.