Inspired by Peter H. Reynold's book The Dot, International Dot Day was launched by Iowa teacher Terry Shay when he introduced his classroom to the book on September 15, 2009. (Fun Fact: Terry chose September 15 because the original publishing date of The Dot is September 15, 2003!)
The Dot tells the story of a caring teacher who reaches a reluctant student in a remarkably creative way. The teacher dares a doubting student to trust in her own abilities by being brave enough to “make her mark”. What begins with a small dot on a piece of paper becomes a breakthrough in confidence and courage, igniting a journey of self-discovery and sharing, which has gone on to inspire countless children and adults around the globe.What started as a story in the pages of a book is transforming classrooms around the world as teachers and students celebrate creativity in the classroom. Even with just a few hours of participation, educators are helping to ensure that every student – whether in pre-school, K-12 or college -- knows that he or she has what it takes to make a mark on the world.
An International Dot Day celebration can be whatever you want it to be – from a 30-minute moment to week-long series of activities or even a year-long theme for you classroom. For ideas, download this free handbook from Fablevision: http://www.fablevisionlearning.com/pdfs/fablevision_dot_day_handbook.pdf
Also, be sure to check out this blog post from Karen McMillian, a 7th grade teacher in California, http://www.notesfrommcteach.com/2012/09/release-their-creativity.html. Karen shares great examples of how she is using Dot Day activities to encourage her students creativity and to make a difference in the world!
