Storytime has always held a special place in childrens & family life. Whether it’s cuddling up at bedtime or bringing a picture book to life through imaginative play, storytelling is one of the most powerful ways we support children’s learning in the early years. Classic stories such as Elmer, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and Winnie the Pooh have delighted generations with their warmth, humour, and gentle wisdom.
For me, growing up in Australia, tales like Snugglepot and Cuddlepie opened my imagination to the magical world of gum nut babies, bush creatures, and vibrant native flora and fauna. These stories did far more than entertain they connected me to nature, community, and the joy of discovery.
Today, as parents and caregivers in a busy digital world, storytelling remains one of the most meaningful ways we can bond with our children while nurturing essential developmental skills. When combined with play based learning, it becomes even more powerful.
Why Stories Matter in Early Childhood
Stories help children make sense of their world. They introduce new vocabulary, ideas, emotions, and perspectives, forming the foundation for strong communication and early literacy skills. Beyond the words on the page, children learn:
- Communication & language skills through listening, predicting, and retelling
- Early literacy foundations such as sequencing, phonics awareness, and comprehension
- Social and emotional intelligence, including empathy, patience, and understanding feelings
- Cognitive development, including problem solving and memory
- Creativity and imagination, which support flexible thinking and resilience
Bringing Stories to Life Through Play
At Edx Education, we believe that pairing storytelling with hands-on play gives children the space to explore ideas in deeper and more meaningful ways.
1. Explore colours and patterns with Elmer
Elmer’s patchwork elephant encourages children to celebrate uniqueness and embrace creativity. Pair the story with our Rainbow Pebbles® or Pattern Blocks to create colourful elephants, jungle paths, or repeating patterns.
2. Count, sort and sequence with The Very Hungry Caterpillar
This iconic story is rich with maths opportunities. Use our Busy Play Pattern Blocks, Linking Cubes, or Number Rods To Go to build the caterpillar, model food items, or recreate the story’s weekly sequence.
3. Develop social and emotional learning with Winnie the Pooh
The characters of the Hundred Acre Wood each model different feelings and personalities. Use our Emotions Play Set, Dancing Ribbons, or Rainbow Pebbles® to role-play emotions, movement, and storytelling.
4. Connect with nature like Snugglepot and Cuddlepie
For families in Australia or those wanting to introduce children to global stories and cultures, this classic tale encourages exploration of the natural world. Pair it with our Outdoor Adventure Kits, Sand & Water Trays, or Early Science tools to investigate flora, fauna, habitats, and sensory experiences.
The Power of Play, Learning and Storytelling Together
When storytelling is combined with hands-on play, children experience learning that is joyful, rich, and memorable. It helps them build confidence, develop strong communication skills, and understand the world around them in a safe, playful way.
By Heather Welch, Edx Education UK, General Manager & Author of Happy Children Play
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I use stories to support early literacy foundations?
A: Combining storytelling with physical tools like our letter and number collections allows children to physically interact with concepts like phonics and sequencing, making abstract ideas concrete and memorable.
Q: What are the best toys to pair with classic children's books?
A: Open-ended toys like Rainbow Pebbles® or Pattern Blocks are ideal because they can be transformed into any character or setting from a story, fostering both fine motor skills and creative expression.
Q: Can stories help with my child's social development?
A: Yes. Stories like Winnie the Pooh allow children to explore complex emotions and social scenarios—such as friendship, empathy, and problem-solving—in a safe and imaginative environment.
