Mary Jo Huff is an engaging and dynamic keynote speaker, known for her unique storytelling approach and her ability to connect stories to State and National Standards. Her presentations are infused with puppet play, music, and movement, making them both interactive and memorable for audiences ranging from educators to families. Her extensive experience as a workshop presenter and staff development facilitator has taken her across the United States, where she has inspired many with her passion for children and education.
Mary Jo’s participation in prestigious conferences and events, such as those organized by FROG STREET SPLASH, SECA, State conferences, Head Start, and University programs, highlights her influence and recognition in the field of early childhood education. Her ability to make learning fun and engaging has left a lasting impact on many, as reflected in the heartfelt testimonials from her audience. Whether speaking at a conference or a family event, Mary Jo’s enthusiasm and expertise offer audiences an exciting opportunity to explore the power of stories and their role in education.
Mary Jo is the author of Children’s picture books and has written over 50 songs for young children, as well as resource books for teachers.
“I cannot thank you enough for inspiring our staff! You make a difference to the folks you come in contact with. Your work has meaning, excitement and most of all fun! It was such a pleasure to meet you and share.”
— Tina Embry, South Central KY Head Start
Author – Publications – available on Amazon and www.storytellin.com/store
• “Puppet Play: Easy To Make Easy To Use” Creative Play 2020 Book of the Year 2nd Edotopm 2024
• “Storytelling With Puppets, Props and Playful Tales” has been awarded the coveted “PEGASUS” award from the National Storytelling Network, 2nd Edition 2024
• “Story Play: Building Language and Literacy One Story at a Time!” Gryphon House, 2011
PICTURE BOOKS for children 3 to 8
• NO, NO EBENEZER, 2022
• CHICKEN FUN! 2023
• GOING ON A GATOR HUNT, 2024
• THE PREDICTABLE PERSIMMON, 2025
2. “CHICKEN FUN!” – iParenting, Dove, Teacher’s Choice awards, KMA (Kids Music Award)
3. “PEEPER PIZZAAZZZ!” – iParenting, Dove Award, KMA
4. “GETTIN’ LOOSE with MOTHER GOOSE and SOME OF HER SILLY FRIENDS” – Dove, KMA
5. “SNAP, CLAP, WIGGLE & GIGGLE” 2016 Mom’s Choice Award – CD & Booklet (filled with song words, Extensions, Book Connections, and Vocabulary Boost
Learn easy-to-imitate ways to turn novice storytellers into captivating experts. You will learn how to develop a storytelling curriculum that suits your specific classroom needs and is flexible enough for all listening levels. See the “Eency Weency Spider” in action.
Groups of children and adults have become captivated with these easy ways to present storytelling and they find a new excitement for literature. All learn how to turn ordinary props and puppets into dynamic teaching tools and they sharpen listening and pre-reading skills, phonemic awareness, speaking, writing and thinking skills.
SCHEDULE
FULL DAY or HALF-DAY ••• MAKE/TAKE included
- Keynote Presentations
- Conference Speaker
- School Presentations
- Educational Entertainer
- Visiting Author
- Workshops
- Staff Development
- In-service and Seminars for Teachers
- Child Care Providers
- Family Child Care
- School visits for students (Half Day and Full Day)
- Residencies and Family Night Entertainment
- Libraries, Family Literacy Groups
- Title 1, Step Ahead, Head Start, Reading First
Call, write, or email Mary Jo at maryjo@storytellin.com for availability and fee schedule.
- NAEYC (National Association for the Education of the Young Child)
- SECA (Southern Early Childhood Association)
- IAEYC (Indiana Association for the Education of the Young Child)
- EAEYC & 4 C (Evansville, IN)
- NSN (National Storytelling Network)
- RIVERTOWN STORYTELLERS * Co-founder
- PUPPETEERS OF AMERICA
- INTERNATIONAL READING ASSOC.
- ASCD
- CMN (Children’s Music Network)
- SCBWI – Indiana and National
