Outdoor shadow activities inspired by books. Dressing Up: Shadows for Play is a free downloadable resource that shows how children can explore books and characters through creative shadow play outdoors.
Part of the 2025 partnership with Jigsaw Education Group, this resource links reading, movement, and imagination. Children use shadows, natural materials, and their bodies to bring stories to life.
Activities are inclusive, low-cost, and suitable for a variety of outdoor spaces.
Please note: this resource features 2025 campaign branding.
Why it works
Shadow play encourages children to connect reading with creativity and self-expression.
By using shadows, children can:
- Explore characters, scenes, and story ideas in new ways
- Show emotions and moods through movement and shape
- Build communication and teamwork skills
- Develop spatial awareness, coordination, and confidence
Outdoor play also supports wellbeing by reducing stress and helping children feel calm and engaged.
Who is it for
- Teachers or practitioners planning outdoor reading and play activities
- PSHE leads linking stories with emotional and social learning
- Teaching assistants and support staff
- Clubs and enrichment groups
- Schools and settings looking for low-cost, inclusive activities for all ages
How to use it
Share the resource with staff and students to introduce shadow-based story activities. Encourage children to select a favourite book or character. Use natural materials such as sticks, stones, or leaves to create props and build shadow scenes. Invite students to experiment with movement and light to create their own stories.
Reflect on the activity with discussion about characters, story events, and emotions. Adapt activities for different ages, abilities, and outdoor spaces.
Get started
Download the resource and review suggested shadow play ideas. Set up an outdoor space with sunlight or artificial light. Demonstrate simple ways to create character or mood shadows. Encourage collaborative storytelling, shadow theatres, and creative problem-solving. Photograph or record shadow stories to share with the class or wider school community.
Further Jigsaw resources
Part of the World Book Day + Jigsaw 2025 collection. Explore the related resources:
- Jigsaw Games 3–12 – Outdoor Reading Games
- Jigsaw Games 11+ – Fact or Fiction Trail Challenge
- Sticks for Play: Bringing Books to Life Outdoors
Use these resources together to create a varied programme of reading, play, and wellbeing activities.
Use of World Book Day resources
These resources are free to use for schools, early years settings, libraries, charities, and community groups celebrating World Book Day. Commercial organisations must have a partnership or licence agreement in place before using World Book Day assets. If you are interested in working with us, please contact [email protected].
