Article written by Ms Veronica Montanaro

Picture a room where every person, no matter how they communicate, has a place in the story.

A child who rarely speaks is the guardian of a magical scarf, a teenager taps out dialogue on an AAC device, parents, teachers, and therapists, some shy, some bold, all find themselves drawn into a world where their presence matters. At the heart of this circle is Louise Coigley a storyteller, speech and language therapist, and the creator of Lis’n Tell:Live Inclusive Storytelling.

Louise’s Journey

Louise’s story began far from the limelight. She lived for years with adults with learning disabilities, sharing the rhythms of daily life. Later, as a speech and language therapist in the NHS, she met children and teens with every kind of communication need-autism, hearing impairment, emotional challenges. Through it all, Louise learned that everyone has something to say, if only we listen in the right way.

Her warmth, humour, and empathy are legendary. Colleagues describe her as “dynamic and infectious,” families call her “uniquely empathic,” and children simply light up in her presence. Louise’s mission? To make sure everyone, everywhere, gets to be part of the story.

What Makes Lis’n Tell Different?

Traditional storytelling is often a performance where one person speaks, others listen. Lis’n Tell: Live inclusive story telling turns this on its head. Louise’s approach is live, adaptive, and deeply inclusive. She builds every session around her “Five R’s”: Rhythm, Role, Rhyme, Repetition, and Ritual. These provide structure, but within that structure, anything can happen. The approach to storytelling is:

Live and Adaptive - Louise responds to what’s happening in the room, making space for every intentional response-spoken, signed, gestured, or simply felt.
Multisensory and Visual -Props are always translucent, so no one is hidden. Movement, sound, and touch are woven into every tale.
Therapeutic Roots - As a speech therapist, Louise integrates goals like turn-taking, joint attention, and social skills into each story.
Genuine Inclusion: Whether someone is non-verbal, uses AAC, or prefers to listen, everyone has a meaningful role.

“Lis’n Tell is a bit like jazz-there’s a deep structure, but also moments of free improvisation, acknowledged and included as much as possible.”
– Louise Coigley

The Science (and Magic) Behind Lis’n Tell

Lis’n Tell isn’t just about feeling good-it’s about real, measurable change. Research with Brighton Sussex Medical School and feedback from schools show that Louise’s method boosts spontaneous communication, even from children who rarely participate elsewhere. Oral storytelling, studies show, helps bridge the gap to written language and builds confidence. Social inclusion, reduced anxiety, and improved literacy-all are part of the Lis’n Tell legacy.

Why Malta?

This will be Louise’s third visit to Malta, where she has delivered training to Maltese speech therapists. She has a deep connection with the Maltese islands and is very fond of them.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the workshop take place?

The workshop will take place on the 29th, 30th May 2025 between 8:30-3:30pm in Malta

Who can join a Lis’n Tell workshop?
Anyone who cares about inclusion-teachers, therapists, parents, support staff, and community leaders. No storytelling experience required.

Does it work?
Yes. Research and countless real-life stories show increased engagement, communication, and confidence for participants of all abilities.

What will I take away?
Practical, adaptable techniques for inclusive storytelling, new ways to engage reluctant communicators, and inspiration to make every story count.

How do I book?
Click on this link to reserve your spot

Bring your voice, your silence, your curiosity. There’s a place for you in the story.

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