NEW! Once Upon a Cardboard

Once Upon a Cardboard – where stories unfold and characters come to life, one box at a time! The program combines storytelling, sustainability, and creative play and is focused on libraries, museums, schools, camps, group homes, and other children’s facilities. The kids listen to a classic or contemporary read-aloud story, then use recycled cardboard and basic craft materials to create characters, props, or scenes inspired by the tale. At the end of each story, children get to create their own alternative ending in a special activity called Once Upon a Twist, giving them a chance to put their unique spin on the tale. The session encourages imaginative thinking, strengthens listening and comprehension skills, and introduces simple concepts of reuse and mindful living.

The program can be offered as:

• A single, one-hour event, perfect for themed days or special programming.

• A multi-session series, presenting two or more stories. The last reading session will be focused on a car story, so each kid will make their own cardboard car. The final event will actually be a special Drive-In Movie Night where the kids will use their handmade cardboard cars.

“Once Upon a Cardboard” is designed to be accessible for mixed-age groups and requires minimal setup. All the needed materials are provided by LABOVA Entertainment.

The program nurtures curiosity, supports early literacy development, and encourages children to engage more deeply with books and stories through hands-on creativity. It’s an excellent addition to reading initiatives, seasonal programs, or enrichment activities for educational and community-based organizations.

Here is a detailed overview of a one-hour Once Upon a Cardboard program (with optional Drive-In Movie Night finale):

📦Sessions Breakdown 

1. Welcome & Introduction 
The session begins with a warm welcome and a brief introduction to the story and the theme of the day. Children are encouraged to think creatively and observe how everyday materials—like cardboard—can be reused in imaginative ways. The facilitator introduces the crafting portion to come, connecting it to the story.

2. Interactive Read-Aloud Story Time
A classic or contemporary children’s book is read aloud by the facilitator. The reading is interactive, with pauses for discussion, predictions, or to highlight characters, settings, or events that will later be interpreted through craft. This portion encourages active listening, comprehension, and engagement with literature.

3. Cardboard Craft Activity 
Following the story, the facilitator leads the group through a step-by-step craft activity in which children create one or more of the main characters from the book. Using pre-cut cardboard pieces, markers, glue, scissors, and other simple materials, participants follow visual and verbal guidance to build their creations. The process is collaborative and supportive, ensuring all children can participate successfully, regardless of age or skill level. The following could be included:

• Character puppets or masks

• Miniature scenes or dioramas

• Props or symbols from the narrative

• Story-themed collages or wearable items

Older children may work more independently, while younger ones may receive extra support or simplified instructions.

4. Once Upon a Twist

Using their cardboard creations, children are invited to participate in “Once Upon a Twist”—an interactive activity where they imagine and share their own alternative endings to the story. This encourages creativity, narrative thinking, and collaboration, and lets each child put their unique spin on the tale.

🎬 Final Event (for the Multi-Session Version of the Program): Cardboard Drive-In Movie Night

The kids will “drive in” to a cozy viewing area and enjoy a family-friendly movie from inside their handmade cars. This event celebrates creativity, sustainability, and community, offering a truly memorable screen-time experience, reimagined.

Bring a fresh, creative approach to your children’s programming—contact us today to book Once Upon a Cardboard at your location.