Our Program
Folktellers for Literacy Program
In the Folktellers Universe, one truth reigns supreme: whoever holds the story wields the power.
The Folktellers for Literacy Program is an immersive learning and entertainment experience that transforms students into storytellers, filmmakers, and heroes of their own narratives. Designed to spark imagination, boost literacy, and strengthen emotional well-being, this program reminds every participant that their story matters.
Through the interactive art of storytelling, students discover the joy of reading, the magic of filmmaking, and the importance of community connection—all while exploring how stories can heal, inspire, and unite.
At the heart of the program is bibliotherapy—the therapeutic use of literature to support emotional healing and mental health. By blending storytelling with emotional exploration, students gain a safe and creative outlet for processing feelings, building resilience, and cultivating empowerment—key elements that help reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness.
As young storytellers dive into characters and themes, they begin to reflect on their own lives, fostering empathy and courage. Storytelling becomes a bridge to self-expression and open dialogue about life’s challenges, promoting connection and emotional wellness across classrooms and communities.
2026 Program:
- Age Elementary - Middle School
- Students per Kit: 30
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2026 Timeline
Open Enrollment:
Kits Ship:
Program Runs:
Celebrity Judging:November 2025
February 2026
February–April 2026
May 2026 - Red Carpet PremiereJune 2026
- Language English
More Than a Program—It’s an Experience
Our all-inclusive Folktellers for Literacy Program Kit integrates seamlessly into school enrichment programs or community-based learning initiatives. Through a collaborative, team-oriented approach, participants don’t just develop creative and technical skills—they also form meaningful bonds, learning to support one another through shared creative expression.
By creating and sharing their stories, students learn empathy, teamwork, and emotional resilience—essential skills for thriving in today’s digital world.
Program Focus Areas
The Storytelling for Literacy and Wellness Program supports the following key educational disciplines:
- Reading and Literacy
- Emotional Well-Being and Resilience (through personal narrative exploration)
- STEM Integration
- Writing and Composition
- Geography, International Studies, and World Cultures
- Multimedia Communication and Filmmaking
- Team Dynamics and Public Speaking
- Self-Empowerment and Self-Esteem Building
Building Visual Literacy and Mental Wellness
The ultimate goal of the program is to cultivate visual literacy—the ability to read, write, and create visual narratives through technology—while fostering positive mental and emotional health outcomes.
Visual literacy goes beyond images; it’s a language of communication and understanding. Through this lens, students learn to express ideas, exchange perspectives, and navigate our image-rich digital world with confidence.
By integrating mental health themes into storytelling, students learn to address fears, worries, and life stressors in a creative, fictionalized setting. This helps build confidence, reduce stigma around mental health issues, and promote lasting well-being.
As they read from the award-winning children’s book series, either independently or in groups, students will create their own video stories inspired by the books’ characters and themes—bringing positive psychology concepts like gratitude and perseverance to life in their own narratives.
The Grand Finale: The Program Capstone
The adventure culminates in an exciting creative challenge!
Students, working individually or in teams, will produce their own movie trailer (2–3 minutes long) inspired by the program’s stories.
Final video submissions will be featured on the Folktellers for Literacy website, where they’ll be voted on by celebrity judges and the public.
Finalists will receive a once-in-a-lifetime invitation to walk the red carpet at Emagine Theaters, where their films will premiere on the big screen—and the 2026 Program Winners will be announced in a dazzling celebration of creativity and courage.
What's Inside the Program Kit?
Educators can order Storytelling for Literacy & Wellness Program Kits, which include everything needed to bring this transformative experience to life:
- 30 award-winning children’s or young adult novels
- 30 participant awards
- 30 Folktellers bookmarks
- 1 First-Place Winner Award
- Red Carpet Runner (for the final event!)
- 1 complete set of Excerpts from an Unknown Guidebook (Books 1–7)
- Comprehensive Program Instructions
- Download and Contact Information
Thank you for your support!
In the Folktellers Universe, stories aren’t just told—they change lives. Join us in helping young minds discover their voices, build resilience, and light up the world with their stories.