Jigsaw Education Group is proud to be partnered with World Book Day® to celebrate the joy of reading and inspire imaginative outdoor learning. This year’s theme, ‘Read Your Way,’ encourages children and young people to explore, experiment, and experience the magic of reading through outdoor play and nature.

Jigsaw has created an engaging pack of FREE resources for Primary and Secondary settings as an extension of the Jigsaw Outdoors programme, combining reading, play, and nature to bring books to life in innovative and inclusive ways using sticks, shadows, and other natural materials.

Jigsaw Education Group Jigsaw Education Comic Strip ‘Sticks and Shadows’

Ideal for sharing with children and families, this comic strip introduces Jerrie Cat who uses sticks, shadows and nature to explore Barbara’s Very Useful Guide to Moods. It shows how the outdoors offers a unique space to enjoy reading and play, promoting mental health, well-being, and mindfulness through nature-inspired storytelling.

Jigsaw Education Group Dressing Up Shadows for Play

Providing alternative ideas to dressing up, using shadows and natural materials for role-play. Encourages character exploration and storytelling outdoors, fostering creative expression for all children

Jigsaw Education Group Sticks for Play Infographic

Inspires imaginative and creative play, showing how sticks can transform into anything—wands, castles, dioramas, even musical instruments! Suitable for all ages, fostering storytelling and exploration in the outdoors.

Jigsaw Education Group Games Primary 3-12

A digital pack of outdoor games linked to stories, encouraging creativity and book-inspired play. Designed to spark children’s imagination and deepen their love of reading.

Jigsaw Education Games Secondary (11+)

Empowers students to design games inspired by books, combining storytelling with outdoor play. Encourages creativity, natural exploration, and links to wider curriculum opportunities.

All these resources support children’s personal growth and emotional well-being through creative and engaging outdoor activities, incorporating mindfulness techniques that help young readers develop healthy relationships with themselves and others. This holistic approach forms the foundation of Jigsaw Education Group.