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Stories That Shape Us

Storytelling, identity, and creative writing.

Teen Advisory Board Program (TAB) Goal: Help youth explore their personal stories and build confidence in sharing them.

Program Themes, Activities & Instructions

December: “Stories That Shape Us”

Focus: Storytelling, identity, and creative writing
Literacy Element: Personal narratives, oral storytelling, journaling
Guest Artist: Local storyteller or children’s author

Option 1: “Telling My Story”

Goal: Help youth explore their personal stories and build confidence in sharing them.

Materials Needed:

Story dice or prompt cards
Journals or writing paper
Markers, pens, pencils

Stickers or small incentives
Step-by-Step Instructions:

Welcome & Icebreaker (10 min)
TAB members greet youth and lead “Two Truths and a Tale.”
Introduction to Storytelling (5 min)
TAB member introduces the guest storyteller.
Storyteller Presentation (30 min)
Guest shares stories and guides youth in creating their own using story dice or prompts.
TAB members assist youth with brainstorming and writing.
Wrap-Up & Reflection (10 min)
Ask: “What did you enjoy about telling your story?”
Distribute snacks, stickers or small incentives.
 December: “Stories That Shape Us” (continued)

Option 2: “Story Stones & Journals”

Goal: Use art and writing to help youth express their identity and imagination.
Guest Artist: Visual artist or journaling instructor

Materials Needed:

Smooth stones
Paint pens or markers
Art journals or notebooks
Glue sticks, magazines (optional)
Snacks
Step-by-Step Instructions:

Welcome & Check-In (5 min)
Ask: “What’s one thing you’re proud of this week?”
Intro to Story Stones (10 min)
Guest artist explains how symbols can represent identity.
Show examples of painted stones.
Create Story Stones (20 min)
Youth decorate stones with symbols.
TAB members assist with materials and ideas.
Journal Writing (10 min)
Youth write a story or poem inspired by their stone.
TAB members help with prompts and spelling.
Sharing Circle (10 min)
Invite youth to share their story or stone.
TAB members model sharing and encourage feedback.
Wrap-Up & Snack (5 min)
Distribute snacks and preview January’s session.
 

Program dates (4:30 – 5:30) – December 15, January 26, February 23, March 30, April 27, May 18

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