This week we are celebrating National Storytelling Week from the 30th January to the 6th February by highlighting some of the great story books focussed on rubbish, litter and recycling.
If you’re looking for some inspiration this National Storytelling Week, then look no further. As educators we know how important storytelling is for developing our imagination, as well as our listening and language skills.
What may be less obvious is the fact that they can help us better understand and even empathise with important environmental, cultural, and social issues.
This doesn’t just apply to children either, even as adults we are gripped by stories whether it’s a dramatic segment on the news or the latest Netflix series.
Today we want to highlight some of our favourite stories that talk about the important environmental issues around our rubbish. We hope to encourage you to start a conversation around waste with your students or children.
You could also talk about what kept you interested in the story, was it the relatable main character, the storyline or something else? How could you use these things when telling your own story?
For more information and ideas about National Storytelling Week, World Book Day and teaching resources visit the BBC webpage.
Too Much Stuff
by Emily Gravett
Suggested age group: 4-6
Summary: A tale of two magpies gathering more and more stuff for their chicks that they must have! A powerful message about consumerism told in a funny and child friendly way.
Rubbish Town Hero
by Nicola Davies
Suggested age group: 11+
Summary: Chipo and his little sister Gentle live on Papa Fudu’s dumpsite in Rubbish Town, searching for valuable things amongst the rubbish to try to stay alive. Life isn’t easy, luckily Chipo has spirit, courage and lots of imagination! And now, he has a plan…
