Storytelling Outdoors with Stick Characters 

Do you have children in your program that only view sticks as weapons? Are you constantly telling kids to put the sticks down? Do you even go as far as clean up the sticks from your playground to “keep it safe.” Well if you answered “yes” to any of the above, then I have an activity for you! Stick Characters!

Sticks can be used in so many different ways in an Outdoor Classroom. This simple art activity begins with a stick. With a few googly eyes, this simple stick will transform into a Stick character and offer a host of literacy activities, social-emotional learning opportunities, and dramatic play performances.

Step 1. GATHER STICKS: Invite children to search for sticks outdoors. Go on a stick hunt. (You can also provide a pile of sticks.)

Step 2. GATHER MATERIALS to dress your stick characters

• Recycled fabric
• Googly eyes
• Ribbon
• Natural materials
• Low heat glue guns or double-sided tape
• and  (Glue guns should be for older children only)

Step 3: INVITE children to create their own Stick Characters.

STEP 4. STORYTELLING: In small groups and invite the children to create a story using their characters. Ask one person to start the story and each additional person to add a line to the story.

STEP 5: ADD EXTENSION ACTIVITIES: Write a book, take pictures, create video…endless possibilities.

What stories would your group create from these Stick Characters? What extension activities do you see with this activity? Share your thoughts below?

Want to learn more? You don’t want to miss the Let’s Grow Literacy Outdoors e-Course! 

Enjoy!

Victoria