How to Create a Storybook Trail for Elementary Students

Classroom storybook trails disguised as a nature walk provide kids with an opportunity to get involved in the story and get fresh air and exercise, while accommodating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning. Designing your own story trail takes a bit of time, but the results are well worth the effort.

Choosing a Story for the Storybook Trail

Select a favorite classroom storybook to develop your story trail. Not only does this allow kids to anticipate what comes next, it encourages active involvement as they seek the next page along the trail.

Although it is not necessary, choosing a storybook that relates to the features of the nature walk adds to the appeal of the story. For example, a trail that winds through the woods, crosses a small pond or stream, and has small hills or a view of mountains in the distance brings the story "Happy Birthday Moon" to life.

Break the Storybook Into Sections

Break the storybook into short sections. You should have 6 to 10 sections, depending on the story and the age of the children. Dividing the story by events or setting works well.

Prepare the Storybook Pages

Prepare storybook pages by hand writing the text on large poster paper. Add drawings or pictures to represent the characters and the events in the story. These do no need to be elaborate, but should be easily recognizable by children in the class.

Number the pages to eliminate confusion or prevent accidental mix-ups.

Create a cover with the title of the book and the author's name.

Laminate the storybook pages. Use a paper punch to punch two to four holes along the top of the page. String ribbon or yarn through the punched holes and create a loop for hanging.

Preparing the Storybook Trail

Place the cover of the storybook at the beginning of the nature trail. Hang from a tree branch or erect stakes to hold the pages.

Arrange the additional pages in sequence along the nature trail. If room allows, the next page should be just out of sight to enhance anticipation.

Setting the Stage for the Storybook Trail Walk

Announce to the class that you are going on a nature walk, but do not tell them about the storybook. Discovering the storybook trail on their own adds mystery and excitement.

The Walk Through the Storybook Trail

Lead the class to the beginning of the trail. Stop and read the storybook title. Older children can read the pages aloud as they work their way through the nature trail. Young children will enjoy hearing you read the pages as you travel through the storybook trail.

Books to Consider

Some interesting books to consider are "Happy Birthday Moon" by Frank Asch, "Goldilocks and the Three Bears", and "Stranger in the Woods" by Carl R. Sams II and Jean Stoick.

SOURCES:
Amazon: Happy Birthday Moon
Stranger in the Woods