Learning and Exploring Through Play: Story

The Perfect Halloween Story

The witch and her cat fly happily over forests, rivers and mountains on their broomstick until a stormy wind blows away the witch’s hat, bow and wand. They are retrieved by a dog, a bird and a frog, and each animal asks for a ride on the broom. They climb on, one after the next, until the broom is so heavy that it snaps in two! What will happen next as they tumble into a bog and meet a greedy dragon?

I purchased this book last night in the form of a board book from Sansbury's at a great price of £4.
I have read this story many times before and it has always been a hit with the children. I was pleased they did a hardboard book version as this is perfect for Little N as she can be a little heavy handed sometimes.

I've never read this story to a child under the age of 3 years old before however so I wasn't sure how Little N would react to it as she is only currently 23 months old.

When she first saw the book she was very excited and said "Mommy read it" I sat her on my lap and got ready to read the story.
I began by showing her the front cover and introducing some new words to her.
- Witch - Broom - Cauldron
I encouraged her to repeat the words a few times after me. I then asked her where they were, where she successfully pointed out all 3.

We spoke about the moon in the sky (which she has a fascination with at the moment), about the star wand in the witches hand and the cat.
"Hold on tight" I said. "Don't fall" she added.

The foundation was set. New words were introduced and she was keen to get going.

I began reading the story, adding in key phrases along the way.
"Oh no! The dog's got the witches hat, give it back please dog!"
"Snap!" Oh dear the broom is broken!"
"Naughty dragon, leave the witch alone!"
I add in these phrases as she will go on to use them independently then when she sits reading the story through pictures to herself.

It really is a very clever story that you love a little more each time you read it.

It is a wonderful read especially around this time of year for Halloween.
It features a friendly witch which is great for younger children.
The book flows with the use of rhyming sentences.
There are some great videos on YouTube to check out, they even have this story on DVD which I am very tempted to purchase!

Extending:

I plan to extend this book by adding props that we can use whilst telling the story.
As well as using them to tell the story, they will be available for Little N to play with independently and familiarise herself with some of the items featured in the story.

Theme Layout

Boxed or Wide or Framed

Theme Translation

Display Featured Slider

Featured Slider Styles

Display Grid Slider

Grid Slider Styles

Display Trending Posts

Display Author Bio

Display Instagram Footer

Mobile Navigation

Top Navigation Menu

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Activities

Room on the Broom

Follow @learningthroughplay8