This is a book I found while vacationing in the Teton Valley in Wyoming. The Teton Valley is just a short drive from Yellowstone National Park. In Yellowstone, there are many Moose! The Moose is my most favorite forest animal! So, naturally, because I can't say no to children's literature, I bought this book from a little tourist shop near where we were staying. I have not seen it in many other places…I'm hoping you can find it at your local library or book store? If you can't find it anywhere, that's OK because I have uploaded a (very amateur) video of me reading the book while showing the pictures. Forgive my voice, I have a slight speech impediment.
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| "Moose got he feeling he was missing out on something. What could it be?" |
Before beginning this fascinating story, ask a few questions:
"How do you feel when you are bored?" "What are some things you don't like to do, but wish you were brave enough to do them?" "Have you ever accomplished something that you never thought you could?" Allow the children to be open and comfortable during this discussion. Point out that we all have things we don't like to do, or that scare us…BUT the beauty of it is, you can be brave and try new things!
Read (or watch the video, below) "Making the Moose out of Life"
*(I now have a youtube channel & you can subscribe!)
Now ask these questions:
"How do you think Moose felt when all his friends were doing activities he didn't want to do?" "Do you think you are brave enough to take a deep breath and try something new?" "If you could try something new…what would it be?" This question will lead you into your art project…
Supplies needed:
Paper
Crayons/Markers
Pencil
As the children answer that last question, lead them to the art table. Have the supplies out and ready to use. Ask them to draw that "something new" they would like to try! Here are some of our results…
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| Mr. J decided it would be awesome to start a "Bug Club" |
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| Miss S wanted to find a rainbow and live on it! |
The ideas are endless and can be ANYTHING! Imagination is a key element in this activity. I hope this book and activity will spark your child/children to think deeply about something that would be cool to do that they have never done before. Realistic or not, these ideas will stimulate children to move forward and accomplish "new" things. This book club activity is more about extending thought and imagination, conjuring up fun and creative ideas, than it is about the actual project. However, if you hang your child's "something new" art in a place where it can be seen often, those creative juices will continue to flow. It is also a great conversation started for visitors and will make your child proud!
This is a favorite activity of mine, as an teacher. I ADORE hearing, and trying to envision, the intuitive ideas of a child! Their imagination is beyond compare! So, be a sponge and soak it in…you won't be disappointed.
Peace and joy…
Miss Lisa
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