Activity

Introduce a box of objects that evoke awe and spark conversation. E.g. maps, postcards, keys, telescopes, shells, flags, jewellery, gadgets.

Ask children to select an object and introduce it to the group i.e. what they like about it / what they think it is. Encourage abstract / different uses of the objects.

Where do they think the items came from?

Who do they belong to?

How were the objects used?

Support children to tell a story incorporating their descriptions into imaginary scenarios. You could write it as a group on the board. E.g. if a child were to imagine a river that is blocked, you might ask which one of the objects might help them to get across and how?

Retell the whole story back with the children joining in acting out and animating their objects.

Reflection

• Were any objects more helpful in sparking their imagination?

• Were the children able to think of different contexts to use the objects, did any surprise you?

Go Further

Create a provocation box of items that children can discover and mix and match items. You may want to link a box to a specific story character or historical figure in a loose way.

Imaginative: Playing with Possibilities

Through playful experimentation, children explore possibilities and look for connections, linking their exisiting knowledge and understanding of the world.