This article is brought to you by Slough Borough Council, on behalf of National Literacy Trust, for the attention of all Early Years settings.
You are invited to step into a world where imagination leads, music stirs curiosity and a simple stick can become anything at all. Inspired by Stanley’s Stick, written by John Hegley, illustrated by Neal Layton, and published by Hodder Children’s Books, this exclusive live moment celebrates National Share-a-Story-Month with a joyful blend of rhythm, narrative and creativity for young children.
This event is a Go All In Together! moment, part of the National Year of Reading 2026.
Who's it for?
Aimed at children in Early Years and KS1/ P1-P3 pupils, including children with childminders.
What to expect during the event
Join us for a celebration of reading, music and imagination that helps children use stories to discover the outdoors.
🎶 First half: A musical story experience
We begin with a performance of Stanley’s Stick, accompanied by the Northern Chamber Orchestra. Expect an immersive and active journey where story and sound weave together to inspire curiosity and storytelling of the world around us.
🌿 Second half: Interactive workshop
A special four-nation-version of Stanley's Stick crafted by storyteller, Danyah Miller and illustrator of Stanley's Stick, Neal Layton.
How to join the event
Once registered, you’ll receive everything you need to take part and bring the magic to your children.
This event will be hosted as a YouTube premiere online event, and you will receive the direct link to the email you sign up with closer to the event.
What to prepare for the event
- Before the live event, please gather a small collection of sticks for children to use. Alternatively, provide sheets of paper and colouring pens or pencils for children to draw their own stick during the session.
If the children taking part are across phases or year groups, we encourage them to come together and watch the event in a communal area in your setting.
