Print-and-play storytelling game
Story Starter Cards
Pull a character, a setting, and a problem card to spark a brand new story. It's an easy, screen-free way to get kids talking, imagining, and laughing together.
Suggested ages
Ages 4-8
Setup
- Print both pages on cardstock or regular paper.
- Cut out the 24 cards.
- Sort into three piles: characters, settings, problems.
How to play
- Draw 1 card from each pile.
- Tell a short story using all three prompts.
- Take turns adding a sentence at a time.
Quick variations
- Easy mode: use only character + setting cards.
- Challenge mode: set a one-minute timer and see how much story you can tell.
- Movement twist: act out one part of the story before the next turn.
Printable cards (2 pages)
Character
A brave puppy
Character
A curious cat
Character
A tiny turtle
Character
A friendly robot
Character
A sleepy dragon
Character
A silly monkey
Character
A kind nurse
Character
A space kid
Setting
In the backyard
Setting
On a forest trail
Setting
At the beach
Setting
On a snowy hill
Setting
In the kitchen
Setting
In a treehouse
Setting
At the library
Setting
In the city park
Problem
Lost a favorite hat
Problem
Found a mystery map
Problem
Needs a new friend
Problem
Has a surprise to share
Problem
A storm is coming
Problem
Must build a bridge
Problem
Planning a birthday party
Problem
Missing an important ingredient