Storytime doesn't have to end when the last page is turned. A good children's book can inspire conversations, creativity, and activities that help children connect the story to their own lives.
After reading Olivia's story, try one of these simple activities to keep the experience going.
1. Draw Your Own Character
Give your child some paper and crayons and ask them to create their own character.
Encourage them to think about:
- What does their character look like?
- What kind of hair do they have?
- What is their favorite hairstyle?
- What makes their character special?
- What is something their character is proud of?
Let them decide every detail. The goal is to encourage creativity and give them an opportunity to express their own ideas.
2. Create a “What Makes Me Special?” Picture
Ask your child to draw a picture of themselves.
Then talk about the things that make them unique.
You can ask:
“What do you like most about yourself?”
“What makes you different from your friends?”
“What is something you're really good at?”
For younger children, you can write their answers around their drawing to create a simple “What Makes Me Special?” poster.
3. Try a New Hairstyle Together
Use Olivia's story as inspiration to talk about different hairstyles.
Ask your child which styles they like and why. If appropriate, you can even try a new hairstyle together.
It could be:
- Braids
- Twists
- Puffs
- Ponytails
- Locs
- A favorite everyday style
The activity doesn't need to be about creating a “perfect” hairstyle. It's simply a fun way to explore personal style and self-expression.
4. Make an Affirmation Coloring Activity
Choose a positive affirmation inspired by the story and turn it into a coloring activity.
Some simple options include:
“I am beautiful.”
“I am unique.”
“I am confident.”
“I love who I am.”
“I am proud of myself.”
Write the affirmation on a piece of paper and let your child decorate it with their favorite colors, patterns, and drawings.
This can become a fun piece of artwork to display in their room or reading space.
5. Talk About What You Remember
Before moving on to the next activity, ask your child about the story.
Try questions such as:
- “What was your favorite part?”
- “Which character did you like most?”
- “What did you learn from Olivia?”
- “Was there anything that reminded you of yourself?”
- “What would you tell Olivia?”
These questions can help children think about the story beyond the pictures and words on the page.
6. Create a Family Storytime Tradition
Choose one afternoon each week for a special reading and creative activity.
Start with a book, then follow it with something simple:
Read → Talk → Create → Share
One week, you might draw self-portraits. Another week, you might create affirmation artwork or talk about everyone's favorite hairstyles.
Keeping the routine simple makes it easier for children to look forward to reading together.
Turn Storytime Into Something More
Children's books can be a starting point for much more than reading. They can inspire conversations about identity, creativity, confidence, and the things that make each child unique.
After reading Olivia's story, give your child time to talk, draw, create, and express themselves.
There doesn't need to be a perfect activity or finished result. Sometimes the most meaningful part is simply spending time together and letting children share what's on their minds.
Continue Olivia's Story
Ready for more reading and creative activities?
