Crafts to Inspire Storytelling (for Kids and Grown-ups too!)

The language of children is storytelling.

Every parent and teacher has experienced this to be true. If you have doubts, look to the nearest child and say, “Once upon a time….” You will see that you now have their full attention, no matter what they were doing a moment before — because you are now speaking their language.

Scientists have now discovered that reading about experiences in books lights up the brain in the same way that physical experiences do — there’s no distinction. Regardless of how we consume stories, they do the same thing they always have: they provide meaning to our own lives and allow us to make sense of the things around us. That’s why navigating the world means navigating stories.

We’ve gathered three of our favorite crafts, centered around creating space and inspiration for storytelling — for parents and kids alike! Explore these fun activities and let the creativity and storytelling flow!

Free Printable Story Starting Cards

What if some of the Sparkle Cast of characters began guest-starring in one anothers’ tales? Have you ever found yourself wondering this? If so, then this activity is for you and your littles! These darling printable cards will help you create your own story adventures, based on Sparkle characters you know and love (or will soon discover!).

To use, simply download the PDF file, print it, and cut out the individual cards to make a small deck.

Then grab a handful of cards to use for a mix and match storytelling or picture drawing adventure where all of Sparkle-land comes together in one magical place!

Find them here!

Felt Storytelling Board

Little ones have a lot of stories to tell! Make a felt board to support their storytelling, giving them a chance to bring their stories to life as they tell stories they’ve imagined or retell stories they’ve heard.

Here is the guide to make your own!

Painted Story Seashells

There’s little that matches the joy and excitement of some impromptu storytelling! Having trouble knowing where to start? With just a bit of planning, you can easily tell your own sudden story with this fun craft – making painted story shells, or stones, cards, etc. Once you have your set, when the moment is right – or any moment that strikes you, really – you too can tell your own sudden story!

Craft your set here!