Once Upon a Time Story Circle

Storytime introduces children to narrative structure and new vocabulary while fostering a love of books and shared experiences.

• Framework: IPC
• Unit: Fairytales
• Learning area: Language Arts
• Level: Infant & Toddler

Objectives

• Develops listening and attention skills
• Introduces fairytale vocabulary
• Encourages early language through repetition

Materials

• Simple fairytale board books
• Puppets (king, queen, dragon)
• Soft cushions for seating
• Picture cards of fairytale characters

Instructions

Gather children in a cozy circle with cushions. Use puppets to introduce the story, making character voices engaging but not frightening. Read a simple fairytale board book, pausing to point at pictures and name characters. Encourage toddlers to repeat key words like 'castle,' 'princess,' and 'dragon.' For infants, focus on maintaining eye contact and using animated facial expressions.

Educator tip

Choose books with simple plots and happy endings—avoid scary elements that might frighten young children.

Assessment

Observe children's attention span, their attempts to vocalize or point at pictures, and their engagement with puppets and characters.

More from Fairytales

• Magic Wand Waving
• Royal Dress-Up Time
• Sparkle Sensory Bottles
• Princess and Prince Fingerplays
• Royal Ball Dancing
• Friendly Dragon Puppets
• Magic Potion Sensory Play
• Dragon Egg Hunt