We see many posts from teachers sharing classroom wishlists, requesting compensation appropriate for the profession, pleas for a workplace environment that supports a healthy work/family life balance - all of which are very real needs - but I assure you, the ultimate teacher's dream is to have a positive impact on the lives of their students and help them reach their full potential. Teachers strive for thriving classroom communities by creating welcoming and safe environments where students gain confidence, pursue knowledge, have abundant opportunities for exploration and creativity, and feel loved. Having the wonderful works of Peter H. Reynolds in their classroom helps children develop self-expression, creativity, kindness, and the confidence to share their ideas — all of which help contribute towards a positive classroom culture.
Teachers love using Reynold's picture books as a resource in their lessons because they seamlessly integrate social-emotional learning and create opportunities to reinforce the strong classroom community they have created with their students. Every title delivers powerful messages through meaningful words and beautiful illustrations that teach about curiosity, courage, and how making mistakes is a natural part of learning.
One classroom favorite with teachers over the past two decades is The Dot. With its enduring message of how to turn moments of frustration, apprehension, or disappointment and turn them around, this book celebrates being brave enough to try. Art class is over, but Vashti is glued to her chair before a blank paper. The words of her teacher are a gentle invitation to express herself. But Vashti can’t draw - she’s no artist. To prove her point, Vashti jabs at a blank sheet of paper to make an unremarkable and angry mark. "There!" she says.
That one little dot marks the beginning of Vashti’s journey of surprise and self-discovery. That special moment is the core of Peter H. Reynolds’s delicate fable about the creative spirit in all of us.
Teacher Resources: The Dot/Ish Classroom Guide
In Be You!, readers discover a joyful reminder that every child is unique and special. Whether you want to keep this book on your shelf as a comforting affirmation or give it to students as an inspirational graduation gift, there is no better way to let them know they should always celebrate their individuality.
Be curious...
Be adventurous...
Be brave...
BE YOU!
Teacher Resources: Be You Activity Sheets (7 total)
Together, the dream team of Peter H. Reynolds and Susan Verde created the I Am series in which readers cultivate empathy and compassion towards themselves and others. The beautifully written and illustrated I Am series has become my classroom inspiration, top SEL resource, and mindful teaching mantra. Titles in the series include I Am Yoga, I Am Peace, I Am Human, I Am Love, I Am One, I Am Courage, I Am Me, Who am I, and I Am We: A Book of Community.
If you are looking for ways to use the books in the classroom, check out Peter’s resources at FableVision Learning.com.
Peter's message to young readers is clear: Dream Boldly. Create Bravely. Be You. Beyond motivating young readers and creating a strong community, Peter believes strongly in teachers and our dreams. His non-profit, Reynolds Center for Teaching, Learning & Creativity, supports teachers - and encourages young people to be brave enough to share their voices - and to use their creativity in positive ways; the Reynolds Center TLC is empowering the next generation to become creative problem solvers and agents of positive change.
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