Bookmaking Workshop
To develop early understanding of books as authored, created objects and motivation to make marks.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Literacy
- Learning area: Literacy
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Makes marks to represent ideas
- Understands books are made by people
- Dictates sentences for scribing
- Creates simple visual narratives
Materials
- Pre-folded paper books
- Crayons and felt tips
- Stickers and stamps
- Alphabet stamps
Instructions
Prepare simple eight-page books by folding and stapling A4 sheets. Place them alongside crayons, felt tips, and stickers in an inviting station. Children instinctively want to fill books.
Model making your own book alongside the children: 'I'm making a book about my dog. On this page I'm going to draw him. He looks a bit like this...' Your engagement models the purpose and process.
Scribe for children who want words in their books: 'What shall I write on this page? You say it and I'll write it.' Write in front of them, saying each word as you write it. 'This... says... MY... DOG.'
Accept any mark-making as 'writing' in a child's book. 'Is that writing? Read it to me! Oh, it says your dog is funny! Let me write that on here for you.' Value their marks completely.
Help children create a simple narrative across their pages: 'What happens on page one? And then what? What's on the last page?' Even a simple three-event sequence introduces story structure.
Display or share completed books proudly. Read them to the group: 'Noah made a book! Would you like to hear it?' This positions children as authors whose work matters.