Building Stories with Clay

Modelling clay is a friendly, fun, and engaging material for expression. Working with clay enhances fine motor skills and focus. The sensory experience can have a calming effect. In group settings, the slow, hands-on process sparks conversations that naturally lead to oral and visual story building. Sharing clay projects encourages communication skills and boosts self-esteem. Clay layers inspire layered stories! Barbara will share simple techniques, student examples, and project ideas for building stories with plasticine. She will illustrate the step-by-step process of storytelling with words and pictures from her books The Subway Mouse, Perfect Snow, and The Party. The session will conclude with a sneak peek at her newest book: Story Hunter, launching in spring 2026.