The students at the Episcopal Center for Children started the year with a book whose simple text conveys a powerful message about a child’s creative potential. The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds is often used to inspire artistic self expression and self confidence. But it is equally capable of encouraging struggling or reluctant readers and writers of any age to “make their mark” with words! Like any artistic creation that begins with a simple dot, reading and writing begin by making their mark with a simple word.
The start of the school year also coincided with International Dot Day on September 15th! Students were given the opportunity to make their mark with a dot and express their creativity on a piece of coffee filter while answering the following question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Students were then asked to write their response on their piece of art. Responses ranged from a chef to a voice artist. There are endless resources and ideas to help bring this book’s message to your home or classroom.
Other suggested books by Peter H. Reynolds are:
- Ish
- Sky Color
- I’m Here
- Rose’s Garden
- So Few of Me
Other Inspiring titles we are reading in our room include:
- Press Here and Mix it Up by Herve Tullet
- Zero, One, and Two by Kathryn Otoshi
- The Day the Crayons Quit and The Day the Crayons Came Home by Drew Daywalt
These books are available at your local library or for purchase at your local bookstore. Cultivating a love for reading begins at home. Start by spending 5-10 minutes reading with your child on a daily basis. Reading aloud to your child is extremely beneficial for them and most importantly, it is fun!