This year's theme for National Share-a-Story month is Myths, Magic and Mayhem. Organised by the Federation of Children's Book Groups and celebrated annually in May, it's a great opportunity to remind everyone of the power of stories to inspire and entertain. We've got the perfect resources to help you do this with fantastic ideas to support storytelling like the Awesome Friendly Kid's Story Dice, and the Puffin Story Hats Activity to help children get started with stories. For mythical mayhem, look no further than these engaging resources inspired by Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series to help children share their stories. In addition, audio books are a brilliant and inclusive way to bring stories to life - check out our Top Tips for using audio in the classroom and at home.
Deaf Awareness Week takes place on 4th-9th May to promote the positive aspects of deafness, social inclusion and raise awareness of the huge range of organisations that support deaf people and their family and friends. Encourage children to get involved and introduce them to sign language with our Lizze and Lucky Learn to Sign activity
Another important event, Mental Health Awareness Week, takes place on 10th-16th May and this year we are all invited to share why we're fighting for mental health. The pandemic has seen many children and young people suffer with stress and anxiety and we know that talking about mental health and well-being is essential to help them understand their feelings and share their thoughts. Use these brilliant well-being assemblies produced in partnership with Twinkl and inspired by the Puffin Book of Big Dreams to start the conversation in your school.
As Ramadan comes to an end on 12th May, Muslims prepare for Eid-Ul-Fir on the 13th May - also known as the Feast of Fast Breaking. Find out more about Muslims with Amazing Muslims who Changed the World and our resource pack exploring Burhana Islam's brilliant book featuring scientists, sportsmen and women, WWII spies and artists to name a few.
Story celebrations continue as we approach the final of 2021 British Book of the Year Awards on 13th May! We are very proud to say that some of your favourite Puffin authors have been shortlisted with The Danger Gang by Tom Fletcher, illustrated Shane Devries and Kay's Anatomy by Adam Kay and Henry Paker both up for a prestigious Nibbies award. Fingers crossed!
Tune into the first LIVE Virtual Visit of the summer with author Charlie Higson on Friday 28 May at 10:30. Charlie will reveal some laugh-out-loud tales from his own holidays, both as a youngster and father himself. He'll also talk about his own childhood shyness and how he overcame this. Register on the event page, download a free first chapter extract and send in your questions for Charlie to answer.
If your school is doing something inspiring to celebrate stories this month that you'd like to tell the world about, please contact [email protected] with 'Inspiring Ideas' in the subject line.