Small world provision · Section 5
Make space for woodland stories
A picture or a few words can give children a new idea for their woodland world. These illustrated story starters and reusable prompts leave the characters, explanations and next steps open for children to decide through their own play.
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Take a look inside
Browse one story-starter sheet, one reusable-prompt sheet and an extract from the practitioner notes. These three watermarked previews show four sample cards and some of the guidance included.
On smaller screens, scroll or swipe sideways to browse the three watermarked previews. Download the file for all 12 story starters, six reusable prompts and practitioner notes.
What’s included in the pack?
Section 5: Woodland Story Invitations. This separate ten-page file contains 12 illustrated story starters and six reusable story prompts: 18 cards altogether, with practitioner guidance on the first page.
Twelve story starters
A short line and an illustration offer a possible moment in a woodland story. Children can choose who is involved, decide what has happened or take the idea in another direction. The picture leaves space for their own explanation.
Six reusable prompts
The “Keep the Story Going” cards can be used with any starter, with a story children have already begun or on their own. Offer one when it helps the play, then allow time for a response. They are choices, not a sequence to work through.
One part of the woodland collection. This download contains the story cards and practitioner guidance. Animal figures, environment pieces and other companion sections are available separately. You can also use the cards with familiar figures, fabric, blocks and suitable loose parts you already have.
Using the story invitations in your provision
Begin with the children’s play. A card can offer an idea, but their actions, interests and choices can decide where the story goes.
Offer one idea
Place a card near a small choice of figures and materials, or introduce it when it connects with a child’s story. Read the short line aloud if useful, then pause and notice what happens.
Listen, watch and respond
A child might move a figure, make a sound, point or tell you an idea. Notice what they have introduced, echo a word or add language when it helps them express their meaning. Allow time before offering another prompt.
Follow their next move
Children can change the characters, invent a new explanation, repeat a moment or return to it later. A short episode can be a worthwhile story in its own right. There is no need to complete a story or record an answer.
Different ways to join in
Offer fewer figures, larger lightweight pieces or a reachable play space where helpful. Children can use gesture or their usual communication supports, direct a partner, select a character or watch first.
Choose ideas that feel right
Follow children’s feelings as well as their interests. Choose a gentler starter or change the wording if a situation feels uncomfortable. Children can leave an idea aside, change it or stop whenever they wish.
What should we print?
The file has ten pages. Story starters are on pages 2–7 and reusable prompts on pages 8–10. Print the sheets you need on A4 at 100% / actual size for two cards per sheet. Cut around the outer borders and laminate if useful. Page 1 contains practitioner notes, with no need to print it.
Do children need to read or write?
No. An adult can read a short line aloud, and children can respond through movement, sounds, gesture or talk. If a child wants a record, an adult can write down their words or help them photograph the play. Recording is optional.
How do the reusable prompts work?
Choose one when it helps the story children are creating. The cards can support any starter, an existing story or a new idea of their own. There is no need to use all six or follow them in order. Children do not need to answer every question.
Can we adapt the cards and materials?
All text is editable and each picture can be replaced in Word. Choose wording, figures and props that suit the children using them. Avoid small loose parts for children who mouth objects, check materials and supports, and keep constructions low and stable. Fabric can suggest water and printed finds can stand for food.
Download the Woodland Story Invitations
Offer a starting point, leave time for a response and follow the story children choose to tell.
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Resource and preview images © Little Owls Resources.