I’m taking a “reflection break” this evening to think about some of the things I have learned so far here at Confratute and to really explore all of the many technology tools I’ve learned about. (Plus I am just exhausted! There is a reason people usually go to college at 18 or 19- 50+ year old women get tired too easily!) I’ve found a bench outside my dorm and am just enjoying this beautiful campus and delightful Connecticut weather.
The keynote speaker today was Peter Reynolds, author/illustrator of The Dot and Ish. These are great books for encouraging kids to conquer their fears and to explore their creativity. He has a third book coming out in this “Creatrilogy” called Sky Color. (All three books will be available in a box set.) This message of “don’t be afraid to try” is so important for our kids. I hate hearing my students say “ I can’t do this” or “I’m no good at ____.” One thing that Peter said hit me personally was to be careful about making these kind of statements in front of your students. I am so guilty of this when it comes to drawing. I catch myself saying things like “Well, I’m not a very good artist, but I will try to draw a tiger.” I think I’ll take a clue from Ish and start saying “Well, here is my tiger-ish drawing!”
One of the neatest things about Confratute is learning from the other attendees. While back in our suite this evening I mentioned something called StoryBird I had seen on a blog. One of our suitemates had used it and gave me more information. (I can't wait to try this with my kids!) Then my roommate was sharing a website she had used to publish student work. This has been the most incredible experience, and I am SO grateful to our PTA and administration for enabling us to attend!
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