Acting out parts of the story can be really engaging. So if the story has a character running away from a monster, the kid telling the story can run a few steps around the campfire area. Also, using different voices for different characters in the story helps to bring it to life. You can have a deep voice for the villain and a high - pitched voice for the victim. This way, everyone listening will be more interested and involved in the story.
They can use sound effects. For example, if there's a part in the story about a howling wind, one kid can make a whooshing sound. It makes the story feel more real.
Use different voices for different characters in the story. For example, if there's a monster, use a deep, growling voice. It makes the story more vivid.
Use a lot of sound effects. For example, if you're telling a story about a creaky old house, make creaking noises while you're talking. It really sets the mood.
Adding personal details to the story can make it more interesting. If it's a story about a haunted house, the kid can say that the house looks like the old abandoned one they saw on their way to the campsite. Also, kids can act out parts of the story. If it's a story about a monster chasing someone, they can run around a bit like they are being chased to make it more exciting.
Make the setting vivid. Describe the campfire itself, how the flames are dancing and casting shadows. Then start building the world of the ghost story. Talk about the cold wind blowing through the trees in the story, the creaking of old doors if there are any in the plot. The more details you add to both the real campfire setting and the fictional story setting, the more engaged the kids will be.
Use different voices for different characters. For example, make your voice low and raspy for a spooky monster. This will immediately draw the kids in.
Use suspense. For example, don't reveal the monster right away. Build up the tension by describing strange noises or small, unexplained events first.
Build up the suspense. Don't reveal the scary part right away. Describe the setting, the characters' feelings, and slowly introduce the element of fear. For instance, start by talking about how peaceful the forest seems at first, then gradually introduce the strange noises and the sense of unease.
Create vivid characters in your stories. Give them names, personalities and backstories. This makes the audience care more about what happens to them. Use sound effects if possible, like snapping a twig to mimic a spooky noise in the story. And end your story with a cliffhanger or a really unexpected twist to leave your audience thinking about it long after the campfire is out.
Use lots of sound effects. For example, if you're telling a story about a werewolf, make growling noises. And for the funny part, like when the werewolf slips on a banana peel (yes, in the middle of the forest), make a big 'whoosh' sound as it slides. Also, act out the parts. Wave your hands like the werewolf's paws or hunch over like an old witch.
Create a spooky atmosphere around the campfire. Dim the lights if possible, and use some props like fake spiders or a plastic skeleton. As you tell the story, gesture towards these props at the appropriate times. The physical setting will enhance the overall experience of the story and make it more engaging for kids.