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!)

* Looking for other on-going projects to do with your child? Get tips from HOMER’s Dr. Jody and Dr. Sam with our latest Ask The Experts video.