Episode Three - Story Boxes

Introduction

Braille Bites Season Two – Story Boxes

Books come alive when learners can actively share in the experience of the book and interact with the storyline. Provide a collection of items mentioned in the story, which the child can hold and explore, to promote a stronger connection to the storyline. Personalize book bags to spark the child’s interest, help to develop vocabulary and language, and share in the learner’s reading experience. 

Linked here is a PDF version of the Story Box recipe. 

Key Ingredients 

• The book, preferably dual media (includes both braille and print). This could be nonfiction or fiction.
• The objects that are mentioned in the book’s storyline.
• The container - put everything together in a book bag or box. Label (using print, braille and/or a tactile markers) the outside of the container with the name and author of the book.

Mixing It Together 

• Select a book that is relevant to the learner.
• Assemble the collection of items that are mentioned in the book and will lend support or extend the meaning of the story. Keep it simple.
• Together with the student, identify the objects. Objects could be introduced prior to reading the book, or they could be shared in sequence during the reading activity.
• Make sure the child has lots of time to hold and handle each item. Don’t forget to give the learner the opportunity to explore and hold the book, turn the pages, and talk about the sequence of the story.
• Take time to read and re-read the book together individually and with friends.

Nutritional Information 

Connections to the Expanded Core Curriculum

• Sensory Efficiency: Listening to books read aloud, or sound effects of items within the book bag.
• Compensatory Skills: Tactile exploration of the entire page, details of braille or tactile graphics, tactile characteristics of items in the book bag.
• Social Interaction Skills: Shared exploration of story objects promotes turn taking, conversation skills.

For More Information and Inspiration 

• Create a Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) Story Box – MDE-LIO. Great set of ideas for creating story boxes for students with CVI, including suggestions for different accessible formats.
• Easy to Create Story Boxes – Paths to Literacy. Detailed examples of story boxes, one for every month of the year!
• The Art of Story Box Making – Perkins School for the Blind. Guidance on creating a story box paired with a recording of a story time example.