Another way is to use things that are already a little bit scary, like spiders or bats. They could make a story about a huge, mutant spider that lives in an old, abandoned mine near the campsite. The spider has a web that can trap people, and it's attracted to the warmth of the campfire. So the campers have to figure out how to avoid getting caught in the web while they're trying to enjoy their camping trip.
Kids can start by using their imagination. They can think about things they like, such as animals or magic. For example, if they like dogs, they can create a story about a magical dog. Then they should come up with a beginning, like 'There was once a dog who could talk.' Next, they add some adventures, like the dog going on a journey to find a lost treasure. And finally, they give it an ending, like the dog finding the treasure and sharing it with his friends.
The 'Wendigo' story can be really scary for kids. In the deep woods, there's a creature called the Wendigo that was once a human but became a monster due to greed and cannibalism. It has a deer - like head, is extremely tall and skinny, and has an insatiable hunger for human flesh. Campers who go into the woods where it lives might hear its howls and feel a sense of dread as it hunts them.
One way kids make their own stories is by basing them on their own experiences. If they had an exciting day at the park, they can turn that into a story. They can change some details, like making the squirrels talk or the trees have faces. Also, reading a lot of other stories can give them inspiration. They might see a character in a book they like and create a new story with a similar - but different - character in a different situation.
By creating a safe and non - judgmental environment. If kids feel that they won't be criticized for what they say, they will be more likely to open up and tell their stories. For example, when a child starts to tell a story, adults and other kids should listen attentively without interrupting.
Surprise is a key element. For example, in a story, when the character thinks they are safe and suddenly something jumps out at them. Another important element is the setting. A spooky, isolated place like a dark forest or an abandoned mine near the campsite can add to the scariness. Also, the unknown factor, like strange noises or lights that can't be explained right away.
One camp fire scary story is about a hiker who got lost in the woods at night. He heard strange noises, like growls and whispers. As he walked, he felt as if something was following him. Every time he turned around, he saw a pair of glowing eyes in the dark. Then, he found an old, abandoned cabin. When he entered, the door slammed shut behind him. He was trapped inside with whatever was out there.
Kids can start by choosing a setting, like a magical forest or a far - away island. Then, they can think of a main character, maybe a brave little animal or a curious child. They can add some problems for the character to face, such as getting lost or having to find a hidden treasure. And finally, they can come up with a solution to the problem. For example, the character could make new friends who help them find their way home or the treasure.
The unknown. For example, strange noises in the dark that you can't identify. It makes your imagination run wild.
Isolation is a key element. If the story is set in a remote camp site, far from civilization, it instantly creates a sense of unease. For example, if a camper is all alone in the woods and something strange starts to happen, like strange noises or lights, they have no immediate help.
Well, a very well - known kids camp fire story is 'Hansel and Gretel'. Two children are left in the forest by their stepmother, and they find a house made of candy. But it belongs to a wicked witch. They outwit the witch and find their way back home. 'Rumpelstiltskin' is another interesting one. A girl has to guess the name of a strange little man to save her baby. And 'Snow White' is always a favorite. A beautiful princess is persecuted by her jealous stepmother but is saved by seven dwarfs and a prince.