Storyboxes
Storyboxes are a new resource researched and developed by the Scottish Storytelling Centre and produced by Active Learning Resources Ltd. – a leading provider of educational resources in Scotland.
The Scottish Storytelling Centre invited Judy Paterson - storyteller, children’s author and former teacher - to design the storyboxes, with teachers in mind. The storyboxes can also be used successfully in libraries and in community group settings working with parents and children.
The development of the Storyboxes has included pilot studies in a number of schools. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Teachers recognised that use of the Storyboxes furthered the aims and outcomes of the school curriculum and are seen as an effective approach in achieving the aims of the Curriculum for Excellence.
The storyboxes provide fun activities which stimulate storytelling, storymaking, talking and listening skills as well as creativity.
 What is a Storybox?
Quite simply, it is a box filled with colourful objects, toys and resources to enliven children’s imaginations and lead them into oral storytelling through activities and games. The toys and objects stimulate participation and imagination. Cards give teachers ideas for circle and group games, and hints and tips on how they can become a storyteller/role model. A set of simple stories to “absorb” and retell is included, plus a range of enjoyable activities that will help children create oral stories for retelling.
There are nine themed boxes ranging in suitability from nursery to upper primary, including two new Storyboxes: Scottish Stories; Animal Fun; Spooky Stories; Sea and Shore; Magic and Mystery; Around the World; Early Years Storybox; Rhyme Time and First Stories (NEW); First Fairytales (NEW).
We strongly recommend that, if purchasing a Storybox, you book a CPD event for staff in how to use the storyboxes effectively. CPD can take place at any time of year in your own venue. Training is provided by one of our Storybox Champions who are all experienced professional storytellers. For more information on CPD please contact Joanna Bremner Smith, Education and Training Officer, joanna@scottishstorytellingcentre.com, Tel: +44 131 652 3272.
Comments from teachers in pilot studies:
“If STORYBOXES were in use from P1 as a matter of course then real and significant results would be seen by middle primary.”
“My class has thoroughly enjoyed the storyboxes – it’s been a joy to see how well they have worked together on their storytelling.”
Comment from a child in pilot study:
“My best bit was the story cards. I never took my ears or eyes off them. I wished we had it a little longer.”
Comment from P7 parent in pilot study:
“The detail was amazing and the humour and comedy-timing. Seeing the other children listening and responding while the others told stories was very impressive. They were all very supportive of each other.”
Storyboxes can be purchased complete or, if preferred, the Core Resource Booklets can be purchased separately should you wish to source individual items personally for your box. To order a Storybox or Core Resource Booklet, please contact Active Learning direct on +44 (0)1382 622 226, or at enquiries@activelearningresources.co.uk or download the Storyboxes order form
Choose your storybox
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