Story Aprons

So it has been way too hot in Oklahoma to do a lot outside. It was 102 degrees today. Whoa! It's not even July yet and I'm toasted! So lately we've been doing activities inside and cleaning as well. (I somehow tricked my kids into making cleaning a game. Shhh! Don't tell them.)

Today we made story aprons. I love story aprons. I tell me kids early in the day that we're doing them so that they can pick the perfect book and get to reading. They read the books while I cut aprons out of poster boards.

When they finish the book, I give them a piece of paper and instruct them to draw 5-7 characters or important items that are in the story. Afterwards, I cut their drawings out and let them glue their items/characters on Popsicle sticks. While that is drying, I staple a piece of paper at the bottom of their apron for them to write the title of their story with the author. Above the paper, they are to draw a picture of the story's setting.

When they are all done, I place holes at the top and string some yarn to that they can wear it around their neck as an actual apron. Then daddy and I sit down and watch their production. They use their Popsicle stick characters and items to retell the story against their apron setting. The stapled piece of paper with the title written on it serves as a pocket for their Popsicle sticks to be stored.

And how adorable are my little storytellers?!