Storytelling is deeply ingrained in all cultures and for young children it is a way of expressing what is flowing through their imaginations.
Storytelling is also an excellent approach in developing early literacy skills such as understanding how stories are put together, expanding children’s vocabulary and how to use words to change or edit the course of a story.
One thing I have found when using traditional stories with early learners is that it is often difficult for them to think about the story as possibly having different outcomes. However, when they’re exposed to alternate versions, or when forced to change the motivations of the characters it’s like a whole new world opening up.
Now they can understand the purpose of editing their stories to make them better or funnier, sadder or more detailed. This will help them become better writers.
Jack and Jill
In this activity we are using the well-known rhyme Jack and Jill and adding other options. Children can flip through the flaps to create their own new short story. They might also like to make up their own new elements, brainstorming with each other, or with adults to create even more scenarios.
They can read these to each other, or write each new version into a writing journal. Or staple a few blank pages together to make a book so your kids can write a line on each page and then illustrate it.
How to use
- Print off the colour or black and white version pages
- Cut out all dotted lines and fold the solid lines
- Glue each flap onto the story mat being careful to put them in the correct sections
- Glue the story mat onto coloured card if you wish to make it stronger
I hope you and your children enjoy using this Storytelling with Jack and Jill story mat.
I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section!
Want another free storytelling mat?
- Here’s one that focuses on FAIRYTALES.
Another related 3 Little Pigs post shows how I use interactive bulletin boards to develop these same skills. Check it out if you’re interested in creating adaptable stories on a larger scale!
I wish you happy teaching and learning.
Yay! This is amazing!! I loved it! Sooo useful!
Thanks a lot for sharing!
You’re welcome. So glad it’s helpful to you!
A wonderful idea and yet so simple. This will give my Grade ones much joy !!
I hope they really enjoy it, Mari!
Thank you.
THANK YOU THANK YOU! MY daughter loved it! I’m a stay at home mom who is homeschooling my only child and teaching her to read at times have been difficult however, she was totally engaged with this storytelling board. Thank you so much! Please make more!
I’ll put it on my to do list, Jadis! Actually, your daughter might enjoy making a new storytelling board with you. Just write out a rhyme she likes then ask her to choose other fun options, make little tabs and attach them over the top. It’s a good way to encourage her writing, too!
EDIT: I’ve just added a new storyboard based on mixed up Fairy Tales that you can find here – https://www.lizs-early-learning-spot.com/storytelling-with-fairy-tales/
Hi Liz,
Absolutely in LOVE! Another hit for this home school mom! I wanted to thank you for taking the time out for creating a new story board. Your website in all has helped me more ways than one! 🙂 Thank you once again.
You’re very welcome, Jadis. I’m glad the fairy tale story board went over well with your daughter. Good luck with your homeschool journey!!
Just what I wanted! Cant wait to try it out! I was trying to find something that I could use to tie in procedural writing with Jack & Jill. The kids are going to love this! Thank you!
What a great idea, Wendy! I’m glad this helps with your lesson planning and I hope the kids find it a really fun activity!
Yes, it’s perfect for the kids. Kids always love to hear funny story and something like cartoon. So this is the right way to understand them any topic whether it’s easy or difficult. So thanks a lot for sharing jack and jill storytelling event and my kids loved it also:)
I agree! Learning is so much more natural and enjoyable when we’re fully engaged, and adding humour can really help!