Make your own story stones! Here’s how to make simple, creative stones that spark kids’ imagination and storytelling skills.
Updated May 2025
If you’re looking for a simple, hands-on activity that inspires creativity and helps build storytelling skills, story stones are a perfect choice! These are small stones painted with pictures that kids can use to create their own stories.
Once painted, invite kids to mix, match, and make up endless stories. They’re especially great for quiet playtime, group storytelling games, or even literacy lessons. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to turn something as ordinary as a rock into a meaningful learning tool!
How to Make Story Stones for Kids
MATERIALS
- Smooth stones (you can buy these or collect from outside)
- Acrylic paints or paint pens
- Permanent markers (optional)
- Paintbrushes
- Mod Podge
INSTRUCTIONS
- Wash and dry the stones
If you are using stones that you gathered outside, wash them with water to remove dirt or dust. Let them dry completely.
- Add simple pictures
Use paint or paint pens to draw simple images on each stone. Think of things like special people, a sun, a tree, a house, a dog, or a rainbow. Let each one dry before handling.
- Outline or add details
Use a black sharpie marker to add outlines or faces if you like.
- Seal your stones
Once the paint is dry, seal each stone with Mod Podge to protect your artwork and make them last longer.
- Tell stories!
Place all the stones in a small basket or bag. Kids can pick a few stones and make up a story using the pictures. It’s a great way to encourage creativity and language skills!
These are such a fun craft to make and they make a great classroom tool or gift!
More Activities with Stones for Kids
- 9 Ways to Decorate Rocks for Handmade Gifts
- How to Make Melted Crayon Rocks
- How to Make Heart Rocks
- How to Paint Easter Egg Rocks
- Make Kindness Rocks with this Rock Painting Kit
- DIY Wishing Stones for a Friend
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