ONCE UPON A TODDLER
Story Baskets
Thoughtful, book-inspired play made simple. Each basket pairs a beloved picture book with easy props, prompts, or printables.
FEATURED STORY BASKET
Corduroy
After reading Corduroy, use a teddy bear, assorted buttons and simple number or color cards to continue the story through play.
- Hide buttons around the room for your child to find
- Sort and match the buttons by color or number
- Use the teddy bear to retell and act out the story
A few familiar objects are all you need to create an activity your child can return to after storytime.
READ · GATHER · PLAY
What is a story basket?
A story basket is a small collection of objects inspired by a picture book—animals, natural materials, simple toys or printable pieces. Children can hold, move and explore them while you read, then return to the story through imaginative play.
1. Choose a story
2. Gather simple props
3. Read, retell and play
Browse story baskets
Easy setups using books and materials you may already have.
Sensory storytelling
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
Swish through grass and splash through water using simple sensory props as you retell the familiar journey together.
Open-ended play
Little Blue Truck
Build a simple road scene with toy vehicles and household materials, then retell the story through open-ended play.
Search & match
Brown Bear, Brown Bear
Hide the animal cards around the room, find them as you read, then match each character with what they see.
Nature exploration
Butterfly Life Cycle
Pair a bug or butterfly book with life-cycle cards, model insects and natural materials to explore metamorphosis through hands-on play.
