Create story prompts
Make a set of story prompt cards using drawings, words, and dice; then use them to invent, illustrate, and share short imaginative stories with friends.
Step-by-step guide to make story prompt cards
Step 1
Gather all the materials and find a clear table to work on.
Step 2
Cut the paper into card sized pieces so you have lots of blank cards to use.
Step 3
Make six small piles of blank cards on the table.
Step 4
Write the numbers 1 to 6 on the top card of each pile so each pile has a different number.
Step 5
Decide a story category for each number and write that category name on the top card under the number such as Character Setting Object Problem Mood or Twist.
Step 6
Make at least four prompt cards for each pile by drawing or writing one idea on each card.
Step 7
Decorate the cards with colouring materials stickers or magazine pictures to make them fun.
Step 8
Place the die next to the piles so it is ready to roll.
Step 9
Roll the die six times and each time take one card from the pile that matches the number you rolled.
Step 10
Use the six drawn prompt cards to invent a short story of three to five sentences.
Step 11
Draw one picture that shows an exciting scene from your story.
Step 12
Tell or act out your story for friends and show them the cards and your picture.
Step 13
Share your finished creation on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can we use instead of a die if we don't have one at home?
If you don’t have a die, use a numbered spinner app, write numbers 1–6 on bottle caps or scraps of paper and draw one from a cup, or make a DIY die from a small cardboard box to choose among the six piles.
What should we do if the child finds it hard to turn the six drawn prompt cards into a three-to-five sentence story?
If they struggle to invent a three-to-five sentence story from the six drawn prompt cards, have them pick one card as the main action, arrange three cards into beginning–middle–end, and use the remaining cards as details or dialogue to build the story.
How can I adapt the activity for younger or older children?
For younger kids, reduce the goal to one or two sentences, use only two or three prompt cards per pile, and simplify categories, while older children can add more piles, create more detailed prompt cards, and write a longer paragraph or chapter.
How can we extend or personalize the finished story beyond drawing one picture and acting it out?
To extend the activity, bind the decorated prompt cards and the picture into a mini book, record a video of the child acting or narrating the story, and customize cards with personal photos or recurring characters before sharing on DIY.org.
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Facts about creative storytelling for kids
✍️ A tiny writing prompt (one sentence) can kick off a whole new story in minutes — perfect for quick games.
🎨 Combining drawings with words helps kids plan scenes, remember details, and spark bigger ideas.
🎲 Nine six-sided picture dice can make 10,077,696 different story combos — that's 6^9!
📚 Oral storytelling traditions existed long before writing and helped communities pass down culture and imagination.
🤝 Sharing short stories with friends boosts confidence, listening skills, and empathy — and it's a lot of fun!
How do I create and use story prompt cards with drawings, words, and dice?
What materials do I need to make story prompt cards with drawings, words, and dice?
What ages are story prompt cards suitable for?
What are the benefits of making and playing with story prompt cards?
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