How to Use Digital Kamishibai in Your Classroom

Practical Tips for Teachers

Digital kamishibai are more than picture slides—they are performances.

It can certainly be used in its digital presentation format. However, printing it out and using it as an actual paper theatre is the most desirable approach.

Here are a few ideas for making your session engaging:

① Use the traditional “slide reveal.”

Instead of showing each page at once, slide the image partially to build anticipation before the full reveal.

② Encourage children to repeat key phrases.

Short expressions help learners feel confident.

Many teachers pair the story with simple call-and-response.

③ Add gestures and sound effects.

A quiet “tap-tap-tap” or a dramatic gasp can transform the room.

④ Print individual cards for pair work.

Digital format allows easy printing.

Children take turns telling the story in small groups.

Kamishibai invites interaction—

not passive watching, but shared storytelling.