The act of storytelling is a powerful learning tool for children — and it's fun! As long as there have been people, there have been stories. Stories teach, entertain, share new and different perspectives, connect us to others, and are a part of every culture.
Kids love to hear stories about themselves and their families — like the time Mom first learned how to ride a bike or when Dad had a lemonade stand when they were little. Telling stories allows children to improve their listening and communication skills, imagination, and memory. Plus, it's a great way to share your family history and culture.
Find More Ways to Play!
- Watch PBS KIDS shows on the PBS KIDS Video app.
- Play games on storytelling on the PBS KIDS website.
- Download and print activities about storytelling for PreK-K and grades 1-2.
Summer of Adventure
Explore and play all summer long with a variety of free resources from PBS KIDS. Spark curiosity and creativity with hands-on activities and games supporting literacy, math, science, and fun.
We can encourage children to develop their imaginations and identities through stories, sharing family histories, taking turns talking about our days, and engaging in reading and literacy activities together as a family.
- Take turns as a family telling a story - one person says a sentence and others add on to it
- Telling a story about your childhood
- Listen to your child tell their own stories
- Play pretend is a way of storytelling
Storytelling Activities
Make an Audio Message That Matters
20 min activityWrite and record an audio message to share with friends and family.
Play a Storytelling Game
30 min activityRoll homemade dice and use your imagination to tell a unique story! This fun game can inspire countless wacky tales and be played over and over again.
Write a Story With Your Child Based on a Real Experience
Write a story with your child and help him read it back to you.
Make a Book About Friends
30 min activityHelp children learn to listen to each other and continue to play despite conflict.
Host Storytime at Home
Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a storytime similar to those your child has enjoyed at school, the library or bookstore.
13 PBS KIDS Games for Reading and Storytelling
To extend your child’s language ability and vocabulary, here is a list of our favorite PBS KIDS games that all center around learning letters, how to read, and telling stories.
Family String Puppets
60 min activityMake fun string puppets featuring members of your family and then host a family puppet show.
Create Your Own “My Family Traditions” Book
30 min activityExplore family and culture by making a story book about your family traditions.
Put on a Puppet Show
Explore the basic elements of storytelling while you craft Peg-themed puppets and a theater for your show.
Tips on Storytelling
Using Stories to Nurture Your Child’s Identity
The process of forming one's identity begins as a toddler. Stories and picture books are great ways to help children learn more about themselves and the world around them.
Listening to Podcasts Together Helps Children Learn
Podcasts are a great break from screens and have many benefits for listening together as a family. Learn about these new podcasts from your favorite PBS KIDS characters!
Great Adventures Start With a Story
Just like Clifford and Emily Elizabeth in Clifford the Big Red Dog, parents and young children can be inspired by books and stories to go on grand adventures.
How to Play and Learn With Words Beyond Reading
I try to read to my kids every day. But when it doesn't happen, there are other things we can do to improve our children’s reading skills aside from pulling out a book.
Why Reading Aloud to Kids Helps Them Thrive
Reading aloud to kids has clear cognitive benefits but it also strengthens children’s social, emotional, and character development.
Ways Children Learn Through Storytelling Traditions
Grandpa Nat and other elders in the Qyah community often connect with Molly and her friends through storytelling. Get inspired by Alaska Native storytelling traditions to connect with your child.
How Telling Stories Helps Kids Learn
Reading is important for all ages and has been well-researched for its many benefits, but is there a difference with storytelling? Not to be confused with reading stories, telling stories has its own advantages. Here's what one mom recommends.
Storytelling Printables
Sharing Stories Activity
Learn more about your family and friends with this collaborative storytelling activity.
Learn Along Bingo for Ages 2-5: Family Storytelling
Play and learn with this activity packet all about family storytelling!
Learn Along Bingo for Ages 6-8: Family Storytelling
Play and learn with this activity packet all about family storytelling!
Storytime Stick Puppets
Puppets are a fun way to tell stories. Make puppets of Molly and her family and friends, and use them to retell a story.
Story Starter: Beach
What did Clifford find in the sand?
Tell Me a Story
Stretch your creative muscles and use this guide to tell your own story!