Sequence Cards Storytelling Game

Index cards or cardstock

Markers or crayons for drawing

Or printed sequence pictures as an alternative

Create 3 sets of 4-step sequence cards showing familiar processes: making a sandwich, getting dressed, washing hands.

Start with one set. Lay the 4 cards out randomly.

Ask: "These pictures tell a story, but they're mixed up! Put them in order!"

Help with prompts: "What happens FIRST?"

Once ordered, ask them to narrate: "Tell me the story!"

Encourage sequence words: "First... then... next... finally."

Try the next set with less help.

Challenge: let them draw their own sequence for something they know.

Sequencing and narrating are deeply connected skills. A child who can put events in order and then describe them is demonstrating the exact cognitive structure needed for reading comprehension later.

Sequence words (first, then, next, after that, finally) are incredibly important for school readiness. Teachers use them constantly, and children who know them follow classroom instructions better.

Start with sequences your child does every day. They already know the order — you're just asking them to articulate it.

If 4 steps is too many, start with 3. If too easy, go to 5 or 6 steps with more complex processes (planting a seed, baking cookies).

Save the cards in a zip bag. Revisit them regularly — the narration gets richer every time.