Story Relay
by Jennifer Cooper, posted on August 16th, 2010 in Games & Creative Play
Before kids can write, they can draw. Have the family create a story together through a picture relay. This activity will develop mental flexibility, ability to compromise and empathy—all important parts of creativity.
For each step, each member of the family takes a turn. NOTE: This is a lesson in creativity, not logic. Tell your child that anything goes!
1. Characters | Listen to the conversation and look for how the story changes as each person adds a new character. When our second-turn taker decided to draw a mermaid, the first turn-taker changed his character into a scuba diver.
When our second-turn taker decided to draw a mermaid, the first turn-taker changed his character into a scuba diver.
2. Scene | Ask questions about what the area the characters are in looks like. How did they all get there?
"The mermaid and the scuba diver are friends. She’s going to show him where she lives."
3. What happens | Is there a conflict? Does everyone get along? Is there a new character that needs to be introduced to help the story move along?
Mom: "You can't meet a silver crayon." Child: "Mommy, you said anything could happen!"
4. Ending | How does the story resolve? …or does it?
"It's a limousine submarine. It's going to take the scuba diver home."
Tags: storytelling
