As I was walking yesterday, I pondered a friend's comment: "What if I'm not a creative type? There is no such thing! We are all creative. We need a better definition of creativity!" While contemplating this, I nearly stepped on a flower peeking through a crack in the sidewalk. This small display of resilience highlighted the ability to thrive in impeding circumstances. We may face limitations or lack mastery, yet we can still flourish by taking bold steps despite our circumstances. What's your biggest challenge? What if you give it a try? Always prioritize taking action over just hoping for change.

​"I Want My Hat Back" is a humorous and engaging children's book written and illustrated by Jon Klassen. The story follows a bear who has lost his beloved hat and embarks on a quest to find it. As he questions various forest animals, he becomes increasingly frustrated until he finally realizes where his hat has gone. The book features simple yet expressive illustrations and a clever, surprising twist that will delight children and adults alike. With its dry humor and charming storytelling, "I Want My Hat Back" is a captivating read-aloud book that encourages children to think critically and pay attention to details. Happy Reading!

People who learn the art of improv can manage just about any situation they face.  The art of Improv taught in the classroom provides teachers and children with a tangible way to discuss topics, solve problems, and heal relationships.  I use Improv in a multitude of ways.  Here are a few examples:
1. A teacher came to me with a student who was having difficulty getting along with his partners while working on a project.  He and I discussed how using the Fundamentals of Improv to help his group succeed and do well on the project.  
2. When having a discussion about famous inventors, we talked about how listening helps keep the conversation moving forward so people do not repeat the same things over and over again. 
3.  A student turned in her writing assignment and had not finished all the elements of the rubric.  I found one area where she did well and said, "This part of your story shows an example of creative thinking, you really tapped in to your imagination." This demonstrates a "YES" to her work.  Then I quickly follow up by saying, "And, I wonder if you have an analogy to give your readers a visual picture of what you imagine in this scene."
These are just a few examples.  Once you get in the habit of using improv, you will use it multiple times each day.  I made this poster to help my students have a reminder about how to use this tool.  I hope you will find it useful too.  
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I wonder if anyone can explain the relationship between fractals and cell phones. There is a connection, and it is fascinating! What interests me is the fact that fractals have been in the world since the beginning of time; however, cell phones are relatively new.