What you need:
- This story map (you may want to print multiple copies)
- Crayons or pencils
- Toys (stuffed animals are great for this!)
How to play:
Help your child create a narrative with this story map; print multiple copies to create a whole series!
Tips for Playing:
For Toddlers (2-3 years old): You’ll most likely need to help your little narrator develop a story at this age. Use the story map to guide them by asking questions:
- “Who should be in our story?”
- “Where are they?”
- “What are they doing?”
- “What happens next?”
Write or draw their answers using the story map. When they’re done, you can act out the story with their favorite toys!
For Preschoolers (3-4 years old): Encourage your child to tell you a story using the story map as a guide. They may be able to fill in the story map with drawings, but you can always write it out for them if they need a little help! Once you have the story down on paper, you can act it out together using their favorite toys! To make this premiere feel extra special, put on a Zoom show for friends and family.
For kids in early-elementary school (5+ years old): Give your child the story map to fill in on their own and share with you when they’re finished. They can even use their story to create a stop-motion movie with toys.
To make a stop motion movie, you’ll first want to download an app like Stop Motion Studio to help with the editing.
Help your child set up the scene for their story. Then, using a smartphone or tablet, frame the scene. Make sure the device is in a steady spot so that it doesn’t move!
Help your child to move their characters, one shot at a time, until they’ve told their story. (This a great exercise in patience!)
