My Story Map – Family Activity Guide
Welcome to My Story Map!
Military life brings many adventures, and every move adds a new chapter to your family’s story. The My Story Map activity is designed to help children document their experiences, reflect on their journey, and celebrate the unique places they’ve called home. This guided storytelling worksheet allows families to create a personalized record of their travels, friendships, and special memories.
How to Get Started
- Download and Print the Story Map:
- Access the printable My Story Map template provided.
- Print the pages single-sided for easy writing and drawing.
- Gather Your Supplies:
- Crayons, markers, colored pencils, or stickers for decorating.
- Photos, postcards, or memorabilia from past bases (optional).
- Fill Out the Story Map:
- Work with your child to complete each section of the map.
- Encourage them to write about each base or place they have lived, including:
- The name of the base and the years spent there.
- Favorite activities, places visited, or local traditions.
- Friends they met and what they loved most about each location.
- Draw and Decorate:
- Use the provided space to draw favorite memories from each place.
- Add stickers or small pictures to make it even more special.
- Reflect and Share:
- Talk about each location and the experiences associated with it.
- Discuss how each move helped your child learn, grow, and adapt.
- Display the completed Story Map at home or add it to a memory book.
Ways to Make It Even More Fun!
- Base Adventure Journal: Create additional pages with fun facts about each place you’ve lived.
- Storytelling Time: Have your child share their map with family members, explaining each section.
- Future Dreaming: Leave a section for children to write about where they’d love to go next.
- Digital Version: Take a picture and save a digital copy to look back on over the years.
Why This Activity Matters
Frequent moves can be both exciting and challenging for military children. The My Story Map provides an opportunity to reflect on their journey, celebrate friendships, and recognize their personal growth. This activity helps children:
- Feel a sense of ownership over their experiences.
- Build storytelling skills by recalling and organizing memories.
- Find comfort in the memories they’ve made, even as they prepare for new adventures.
Share Your Story!
We’d love to see your family’s Story Maps! Share a picture of your completed activity using #RootsWhereverWeRoam to inspire other military families and celebrate the shared experience of military life.
Enjoy reflecting on your family’s adventures, and remember—every move is part of your incredible journey!