The structure encourages quick thinking, careful listening and logical story-building, while helping children understand how their choices affect others.
1. Sit in a circle
Sit the children in a circle so everyone can see each other.
Explain that you are going to tell a story made up of fortunate and unfortunate events. Check that everyone understands the difference between the two.
2. Start each sentence with fortunately or unfortunately
The leader starts the story with an "Unfortunately..." sentence.
For example: "Unfortunately, I forgot to put my trousers on before I left the house."
The child next to the leader continues the story, but must begin their sentence with "Fortunately...".
For example: "Fortunately, someone on the bus lent me a brand new pair."
The next child continues with "Unfortunately...", and the story continues around the circle, alternating each time.
Each sentence should respond directly to what has just been said, helping the story to remain connected and logical.
3. Repeat
When the final child finishes their sentence, they end with "The end!"
Repeat the game several times so the group develops fluency, confidence and stronger story awareness.
Encourage children to think about their choices before speaking, reminding them that their ideas influence everyone else in the circle. This supports responsible decision-making while keeping the story coherent and enjoyable. If the group struggles, pause to model one or two strong examples before restarting.
Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.
