Constitution Day Observation through the Arts

CONSTITUTION DAY is on the HORIZON

Tuesday of this week, September 17th, is the observation of 'Constitution Day' for children across America. How do we help to make sense of this rather high-level concept for young children? In my experience, we start with the basics. What does it mean to be an American? What are the symbols that we associate with America? How do we demonstrate our pride in being a citizen of America? 

We start by making certain that young children can recognize our flag. 

We can then encourage them to portray the flag in their artwork. 

The drawing above is a bald eagle and flag combo from the talent of a first grader up here in WI. It was proudly on display in the halls while I made my school visit on Friday. 

Chances are pretty good that you're new here. 

Quite possibly brought to my domain by either Pinterest or an internet/Google search. 

Welcome! 

I am an author/illustrator of children's picture books, 

based on original song lyrics I've written and recorded! 

This is me on the very day where I was 'proofing' the signatures of the pages that went on to become my newest picture book. 

My books are based on songs I've written and recorded. 

There is a CD insert in every book. 

So as the child 'sings-along' they can soon start 'reading along.' 

I make the illustrations for my books from fabric, as small quilts. 

The quilts are then scanned into the computer and ultimately a traditional hardback book is printed. 

As you see, every time the new verse begins,
"Red, white and blue...... I love you" 

there is a new quilt image of flag-esque designs. 

So now I get to design school visits as an author/illustrator.

It is during these visits that the students have responded to my artwork with their own. 

Much of my blog's content is the capturing of this 

'excellence-in-education' that I see during my adventures. 

My book was used as the basis for a "PBL: Project Based Learning" approach. 

(click back to this article to see the many facets of their exploration.) 

I will now incorporate other patriotic projects created for my visits.

Since I'm a quilt appreciator, I attend as many quilt shows as possible. 

This following quilt image was part of a nationally touring display that I saw in Columbus, 

several years ago. 

Of course every project that is made in anticipation of my arrival is a favorite. 

This one made in the heart of New York City, by very young children -- 

has an extra-special place in my heart. 

Their JCC center is RIGHT beside a NYC firehouse. 

Here's one of my favorite videos. Kinder-kids singing and singing my song! 

They are standing in front of the GIGANTIC marble painted quilt they made. 

You can see those details captured earlier in this article. 

Because patriotism is very important to me, 

I have constructed a Pinterest pinboard devoted to the subject. 

There are already 532 ideas pinned there to support your exploration of this concept. 

All of my books are available through my website, Teachers Pay Teachers and our 

Early Education Emporium. 

I have created a zipped file, where you can purchase, and instantly download the song and the charts for music and sign language to support the performance of my song via TpT and EEE. 

***I have put the digital copy and the picture book on a 20% discount at TpT. 

I'll make you a further "deal." 

If you purchase the picture book (which of course needs to be shipped) 

I'll email you the digital copy for you to use IMMEDIATELY. 

That's a win/win, right? 

P,S, When you go to my pinboard for all things patriotic
you will find the brand new product by my dear friend Crystal of 
"Kreative Kinders" as the most recent pin. 
Her TpT product is 'hot-off-the-press' and PERFECT for the littles. 



Also on the pinboard is this FREEBIE craftivty by Maria of "Kinder Craze" fame. 



On other news. 
Today is "International Dot Day." 

Earlier this summer I had a RoundUP of all things "Spots and Dots" and fostering imagination. This is the perfect time to share that link again. {Click pic} 

As always, I'm so grateful for every pin. 
You become an ambassador for my efforts by sharing through pinning. 
Thank you.