Summary

Story Build is a group storytelling activity where each child adds a word, phrase, or sentence to create a story together. It supports language and imagination.

What you need

• No materials required
• Optional picture prompt or toy

Learning focus

• Language development
• Imagination
• Turn-taking
• Listening to others

EYLF links

Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)

Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity
Children contribute their ideas and express their own thinking.

Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators
Children use words, gestures, and imagination to build meaning together.

How to do it as an educator

1. Begin with a simple opening, such as “Once there was a dog…”
2. Invite one child to add a word or short sentence.
3. Continue around the group.
4. Support children by repeating or expanding their ideas.
5. Finish by retelling the story together.

Extend the activity

• Add puppets or props.
• Draw the story afterward.
• Use a theme such as animals or transport.
• Record the story and revisit it later.

Inclusive practice

For ADHD / high energy learners

• Keep turns short.
• Allow movement breaks between rounds.

For autistic children

• Give a clear structure, such as “name a place” or “name an animal.”

For children with hearing differences

• Use visual prompts and face the child when speaking.

For children with low vision

• Focus on spoken storytelling and touchable props.

For mobility needs

• Activity can be fully seated.

For speech or language delay / EAL

• Accept one word, a gesture, or a picture choice.

For sensory or emotional needs

• Never pressure a child to speak in front of the group.

Educator notes

This is a lovely small-group activity and works well for language-rich learning.

Explore more Activities..

Explore more Resources..