DLTK's Crafts for Kids
African Folktales to share with Children

For generations, folktales have been told and retold across cultures, often serving as a means of passing down important messages, cultural values, and life lessons. African folktales are no exception to this, with a rich and diverse collection of stories that span across the continent.

Exploring Folktales with Children

These stories have been passed down orally through generations, offering a glimpse into the histories, beliefs, and traditions of the people who tell them. While these stories may differ from region to region, their purpose remains the same: to teach important lessons and impart wisdom to the younger generations.

Today, these stories have spread far beyond their place of origin, becoming an integral part of the world's storytelling tradition. In fact, African folktales have inspired countless retellings, adaptations, and even modern interpretations, demonstrating their enduring relevance and appeal.

Studying these tales with young children provides a unique opportunity to not only explore the diverse cultures and traditions of Africa, but also to develop important critical thinking skills and expand their understanding of the world around them. Through the imaginative and engaging world of folktales, children can learn about empathy, kindness, and the importance of community, all while exploring the rich and vibrant stories of Africa.

Printable Folktales from DLTK's

The most well known African folktales are:

1. Anansi the Spider - Ghana
2. The Lion and the Hare - various African countries
3. The Creation Story - various African countries
4. Why the Sun and Moon Live in the Sky - Nigeria
5. The Leopard and the Goat - Tanzania

It's worth noting that African folklore encompasses a vast and diverse array of stories that vary greatly from region to region. As such, the popularity of specific tales may vary depending on the cultural context in which they are told.

Lesser known African Folktales

1. "The Wise Princess" - from Nigeria
2. "The Singing Tortoise" - from Cameroon
3. "Marie and the Orange Fish"
4. "The Magic Calabash" - from Malawi
5. "The Boy Who Wanted to Fly" - from Zimbabwe

These stories, like many African folktales, often feature talking animals, magical elements, and themes of wisdom, bravery, and kindness. Each tale has its own unique message and cultural significance, making them a valuable addition to any collection of stories for children.