I had never imagined the rippling and disrupting effects of a disease of this type.
I mean no disrespect about the seriousness of these circumstances: illnesses and loss of life, the exhaustion of health workers, the loss of income and vital supplies for families, and so much more.
I've generally dealt with such overwhelming concerns using the mantra:
THINK GLOBALLY, BUT ACT LOCALLY.
Among the many issues at our doorstep, the closing of schools is a significant concern that is very local, so that's where my attention is.
Here's my suggestion: Read! Write! Create!
You may not be able to get your hands on this brand new picture book immediately, but add it to your library hold list or begin a wishlist for books to purchase when you have the chance.
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| Kane Miller EDC Publishing, 2020 |
THE BIGGEST STORY is written by Sarah Coyle and illustrated by Dan Taylor. It is an entertaining approach to the power of imagination, driven by a dynamic young boy who loves a good story. When his story-telling mama is too busy repairing the plumbing to tell him another story, she urges him to tell his own story.
Even an experienced story-lover such as Erroll approaches that task with an "I can't," "I don't know how" attitude. He tries to turn that around by stimulating his brain with physical exercises. When nothing seems to work, he opens his eyes and ears to everyone around him, to the critters who want nothing more than to play the role of heroes in his story.
That inspiration begins with the tiny voice of ants, followed by the neighborhood cats, an action-oriented flock of sheep, the critters in a nearby wildlife park, and ... wait for it... a T. Rex!
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| Image from Kane Miller Publishing Website |
Once Erroll's story gets rolling there is no stopping it.
At the end of his mom's busy day, Erroll entertains her with a non-stop, fun-filled adventure story. This story-in-a-story homage to imagination includes a surprise twist at Erroll's bedtime, and surprise "do-it-yourself" tips for readers on the final page turns.
I'm sharing this final double-page spread as a template for some at-home imaginative play. Erroll's thrilling story began with nearby characters, lively describing words, and a menu of possible action-adventures. Consider this a launch pad for channeling home-bound energy into daylong creativity.
Then, when you are able, READ THIS BOOK!
When you do have the book in hand, dive deeply into the colorful, comical, and diverse experiences on the page. I particularly enjoyed the stereotype-challenges to various species (socializing cats, assertive sheep, among others.) I'm a sucker for big-eyed and button-eyed characters, especially comic-style with subtle shading and shadows. There is something about these images that epitomizes the magic of lifting ideas off the page, out of our imaginations, and into our lives.
Hours will pass in a blink if those stories, (and stories from favorite books, movies, etc.) are used as the basis for designing and enacting dramatic productions at home.
Why not? And why not use ubiquitous digital devices to add music, sound effects, and then record the final performance?
That's the kind of digital presence I can support!
I've written often about the importance of limiting screen time for young kids, for the sake of creativity and also for the protection of their brain development. In the current circumstances it would not be surprising to have screen time increase. I urge those who need or want to use screen time more often than usual, to do so using positive and productive sites rather than those that amp up the angst or anxiety.
Here are some ideas:
PBS FOR KIDS: This includes interactive games, and a link to parents that offers advice on how to speak to kids about COVID 19.
FUN BRAIN: Kid-friendly and easy to navigate activities.
FBI KIDS: Safely vetted and sorted links for kids to access to engage online.
Meanwhile, stay calm, stay kind, and (as Mr. Rogers always said) look for the helpers.
Then, when you are able, READ THIS BOOK!
When you do have the book in hand, dive deeply into the colorful, comical, and diverse experiences on the page. I particularly enjoyed the stereotype-challenges to various species (socializing cats, assertive sheep, among others.) I'm a sucker for big-eyed and button-eyed characters, especially comic-style with subtle shading and shadows. There is something about these images that epitomizes the magic of lifting ideas off the page, out of our imaginations, and into our lives.
Why not? And why not use ubiquitous digital devices to add music, sound effects, and then record the final performance?
That's the kind of digital presence I can support!
I've written often about the importance of limiting screen time for young kids, for the sake of creativity and also for the protection of their brain development. In the current circumstances it would not be surprising to have screen time increase. I urge those who need or want to use screen time more often than usual, to do so using positive and productive sites rather than those that amp up the angst or anxiety.
Here are some ideas:
PBS FOR KIDS: This includes interactive games, and a link to parents that offers advice on how to speak to kids about COVID 19.
FUN BRAIN: Kid-friendly and easy to navigate activities.
FBI KIDS: Safely vetted and sorted links for kids to access to engage online.
Meanwhile, stay calm, stay kind, and (as Mr. Rogers always said) look for the helpers.
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