Conversations with Cheryl Ann Thornton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cheryl Ann Thornton.  

Hi Cheryl, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
StoryValues originated in Williamsburg Brooklyn, NY, in 2008. At that time, my partner Matthew Giffin and I were dividing our time between there and Toronto, Canada. 

Previously I had been bringing my interactive storytelling and drama performances to elementary schools in the Toronto area to inspire engagement and support character values, cultural diversity, and communication skills. 

Matthew (an artist, musician, graphic designer, and art director) had just finished a freelance project with Sir Paul McCartney (art direction for ‘The Space Within US’) and had been inspired by the character education initiatives that had started in Ontario schools. 

He could see how my storytelling fit perfectly with those initiatives; he wanted to ‘bottle’ the joy and engagement kids experienced during my performances. Over the course of a few months, we worked together to transform my live programs into an innovative online resource, StoryValues Interactive, which ended up being licensed for use by the Toronto District School Board for use in all 500 elementary schools. Not a bad start for our first year of business! 

Since then, StoryValues has grown and developed, currently consisting of live performances, an online resource, live zoom sessions for families and daycares, and a creative kit for families available by mail order. StoryValues has been widely used in the United States, Canada, Australia, and China. 

Our connection to the San Diego area begins with Matthew, whose extended family lives in Encinitas. We visit several times a year; I’ve performed in the area, and my online storytelling sessions and our mail-order kits have been used by children in the region as well. 

The basis of StoryValues is storytelling, an age-old tradition that has been used by cultures around the world for eons. At the heart of StoryValues are what we refer to as ‘the four C’s’: character, culture, creativity, and communications. 

These values are woven throughout the traditional folktales, fables, and stories featured in our programs. Through these stories, children can learn about different cultures and traditions, develop their creativity, and improve their communication skills. 

Positive character values are a crucial component of the StoryValues curriculum. The stories featured on the platform often center around characters who must make moral choices and learn important life lessons. By listening to these stories, children can learn about the importance of honesty, respect, responsibility, and empathy. These values are critical for developing strong character and social skills that will serve children well throughout their lives. 

Culture is another important aspect of StoryValues. Our stories are based on tales from cultures around the world, and they offer a window into the traditions, beliefs, and values of these different societies. By learning about different cultures, children can develop empathy and understanding for people from diverse backgrounds. This is an essential skill in an increasingly interconnected world. 

Creativity is also a key component of StoryValues. By listening to stories and engaging in storytelling activities, children can develop their imaginations and creative thinking skills. These skills are critical for success in the 21st century, where innovation and creativity are highly valued in many fields. 

Communication is the final C of StoryValues. Through storytelling, children can develop their listening and speaking skills, as well as their ability to express themselves effectively. These skills are essential for success in school and in life, as strong communication skills are needed in virtually every profession. 

Overall, StoryValues is a valuable resource for parents and educators who want to help children develop strong character, cultural awareness, creativity, and communication skills. By leveraging the power of storytelling, Matthew and I have created a business that engages and inspires young children while also imparting important life lessons. As we look to prepare our children for success in the 21st century, StoryValues offers a powerful tool for achieving this goal. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Before the pandemic closed down schools in March 2020, I had been performing assemblies in over 100 schools a year and presenting weekly storytelling classes in Day Cares. Because I wasn’t able to visit schools, I started hosting weekly zoom storytelling sessions for families and schools. It was great! Kids all over the U.S. and Canada joined me for fun interactive storytelling and art classes. 

While families were house bound, we heard their need for more than just online engagement. That’s when we developed The StoryValues Kit of Imagination, a fun and creative subscription product we mailed out to families. It consists of a 30-minute video of me telling a folktale with kids role-playing the story characters and all the supplies for a story-related art project. After the story, kids join me in creating their art project that I demonstrate. It was a great hit for families with kids unable to leave the house! All this has enabled the program to be widely accessible, reaching students across borders and cultures. 

Prior to the pandemic, we had also made significant inroads into the massive family market in China. It’s amazing how much can change in just a few short years. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a professional storyteller with a background in drama. I have a Master of Fine Arts degree from New York University and performed in Off-Broadway productions before moving to Toronto. 

As a performer, I have firsthand knowledge of how engaging a well-told story can be. Becoming a mother also gave me an opportunity to see the natural way children respond to stories. Later I started my own preschool in Washington Heights, where I first started developing an interactive method of storytelling. It was a short step from there to develop that method for schools. 

I am most proud of how I have maintained a thriving business through over 30 years, bringing stories to children that really do have a positive impact on their lives. 

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I have learned amazing lessons from my business partner, Matthew, who helps me look for the positive story in every opportunity. His range of experience, through being a gallery artist, illustrator, art director for a major broadcasting corporation and, has been invaluable in keeping my business agile and responsive to the times. 

I also keep a close eye on my women entrepreneur friends who inspire and encourage me. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.storyvalues.ca
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storyvalues/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/storyvalues
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/thorntoncheryl
• Twitter: @STORYVALUES
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@storyvalues1945