Our Very Own Story Paper
We’ve created the perfect story paper for your emerging writer’s early creative writing assignments.
thinking creatively
Tune In and Be Amazed
Are you looking for a way to get information when screen time is not an option? With the increase in digital media opportunities, it is hard to sift through the content to find what you need. We have recently released our podcast.
Simple Ways to Ignite Creativity: Podcast
Children spend most of their days following different sets of rules designed to tell them how to think, how to act, what to do in any given situation. But they need time to explore things outside of those rules if they are to be successful in the future. They need to be able to think creatively.
In Case You Missed It…
This month we shared success tips for emerging readers, a couple more podcasts, some thrifty activities for the family and a free sight words download. In case you missed they are all here…
10 Ways to Encourage Creativity
Children spend most of their days following different sets of rules designed to tell them how to think, how to act, what to do in any given situation. But they need time to explore things outside of those rules if they are to be successful in the future. They need to be able to think creatively. I have compiled a list of ideas for you to get them started in their creative adventures where the limits are boundless.
Summer Activities for the whole Family
Family Book Contest- summer reading lists can often feel impossible to get through, but organize a family book contest to encourage participation and excitement! 
A visual star chart, tracking each members progress is a great reminder for everyone involved, and don’t forget a prize for the winner(s)!!
Redecorate the Yard- redecorating the house can be an expensive undertaking with a lot of planning involved, but redecorating the yard can be done in a few short hours. Dig up holiday lights to string across the patio, plant flowers or vegetables in small pots or “paint” the sidewalk with washable chalk. Celebrate the hard work with a special outdoor dinner or picnic and bask in the mental (and physical) exercise done by all.
Reading Help
A few weeks ago my sister Diane called to talk about her granddaughter Lanie. 
It seems her first grade teacher had some concerns about her reading and wanted to meet with Lanie’s mom and dad. They talked as a family about what the stumbling block might be and remembered our conversations about visual learners. Lanie is a visual learner and she loves to draw. She loves to draw anywhere, anytime, all the time. She takes weekly Young Rembrandts classes at her elementary school. Lanie is a visual learner – but not because she loves art. She’s a visual learner because that is how her brain is wired.
Move that table. It’s blocking the sun.
How can you have a sunny day at the beach, while confined to the Chicago suburbs over spring break?? If your kids have a spirit of adventure, an active imagination and a few choice props – anything is possible.
One of my favorite ‘staycation’ family memories happened years ago when our girls were in elementary school. It was spring break and we were excited to have a week without homework and time constraints, mom included. And at our house that meant lots more time for playful adventures.
One day, without realizing what I would inspire, I brought home three inexpensive pink and white striped tote bags, one for each daughter. Inside each bag was a pair of summer flip-flops. As I gave the girls their tote bags, I could see big sister Laurie’s wheels start turning. She quickly swept her younger sisters into her imagination and upstairs to change. Soon they reappeared holding beach towels, wearing swimsuits, sunglasses and their new flip-flops. The dining room chairs were quickly moved away from the table, the towels spread out underneath and a sunny afternoon beach adventure ensued.
How can you encourage creative at home adventures?
Dr. Seuss: Read Across America
A few days from now (March 2nd) will mark the birthday of one of childhood’s favorite authors, Dr. Seuss. Over the years, Seuss has become a household name; the brief mention of him always brings crazy imagery and catchy rhymes to mind. 
In honor of his birthday, National Read Across America Day was named and is held on the school day closest to March 2nd (Seuss’ birthday).
Insights from Children’s Art Expert Bette Fetter: Top Blog Posts for January 2014
