Intellectual Activity

Creative Writing Prompt Jar

Creative Writing Prompt Jar gives children a calm, imaginative activity that builds confidence in storytelling, writing, and drawing.

Time25 to 40 minutes
Best ForAny group size
SpaceTables or quiet room
SuppliesJar or bowl, prompt slips, paper, pencils, colored pencils

How To Run It

  1. Fill a jar with short story prompts before the activity.
  2. Let each child draw one prompt or choose from two options.
  3. Give quiet writing or drawing time.
  4. Offer story starter support for children who feel stuck.
  5. Invite volunteers to share a sentence, picture, or full story.
  6. Let children add new prompt ideas to the jar for another time.

Prompt Ideas

  • A lost key opens something surprising.
  • You find a map in an old book.
  • A service project turns into an adventure.
  • A kite carries a message.
  • A normal day at church becomes unusual.