“The End” is just the beginning of the fun!
Here are some of my favorite ways to bring a children’s book to life and expand on the story after the last page is turned.
- Play an appropriate soundtrack or sound effects from Youtube while reading the book.
Ok, so technically this first one you’ll do while actually reading the book. This tip is really great for chapter books like Treasure Island or Dr.Doolittle. Just go to the Youtube search bar and type in “Ocean sounds” or “Ambient Forest”. You’ll be surprised at how many videos you can play in the background to truly bring the story to life.
2. Make Food
Take inspiration from your book. Can you make animal shaped cookies after reading Goodnight Gorilla, or maybe even try out a new ethnic recipe after reading about a different country? Maybe the main character had a favorite snack! Flip through the illustrations and see what kinds of food you can find in the background.
3. Field Trip!
If at all possible, visit a location related to book. Maybe its a farm, a forest, or a local landmark. (You can find local historical character books at your library.)
Make sure to pack your book and maybe sit down a read while on location.
4. Get Crafty
My personal favorite idea. Can you re-create the main characters as sock puppets? Or research the illustrator and try to copy their style. You might have to head to the craft store for this one, but any excuse to buy pompoms and glitter is a good one in my book.
5. Play-Dressup
This doesn’t have to be anything expensive. I love rummaging through what we already have and putting a new outfit together inspired by a fictional character. I mean, have you ever heard of Disneybounding? It’s basically taking inspiration from a Disney character and putting together an outfit using regular clothes.
Same idea here, or maybe you do want to get a little crafty. I love shopping at the thrift store for some basic pieces and then modifying them to fit the costume.
Make sure to take some cute photos! Oh and if you go to the story location, while dressed up and eating a book themed snack, you’re basically winning at life.
Thank you so much for hanging out with me today. If you try any of these activities please tag me or DM me on Instagram! I would love to see it.
See you next Saturday!
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