At one point or another, I’m sure we’ve all heard someone say, “There isn’t a creative bone in my body!” Thinking in a growth mindset, this statement isn’t possible. So what’s missing for these individuals? I’d like to think that it’s three main ingredients:
In a nutshell, it’s the process of inquiry. The good news is, it’s never too late to mix a creative recipe.
- A willingness to explore.
- The belief that we can learn anything.
- An opportunity to take small risks.
In a nutshell, it’s the process of inquiry. The good news is, it’s never too late to mix a creative recipe.
The Crayon Man, by Natascha Biebow and Steven Salerno, serves as a springboard to this process. This nonfiction picture book biography brings the story of Edwin Binney’s inquisitive mind to life. The result? Crayola Crayons! After reading this text to my students right at the end of the school year, kids were bursting with crayon ideas to brighten their summers. Young inventive minds appreciated the way Binney took risks to create something new and even the photographic how-to in the back matter.
We can learn a lot from kids. They are filled with wonder and more apt to own the process of inquiry. And although I have always been extremely inquisitive, I don’t take enough time to enjoy the process as an adult. Being a teacher allows me to enjoy inquiry, while constantly learning from my students. Being on summer break, and missing their influence, I put myself to the summer inquiry challenge. I hope you’ll join me. This student idea inspired me:
Playing the role of the student, I listened to my teacher's instructions above, allowing inquiry to lead me to new steps, too. Join me in exploring!
(Directions appear when you hover over each picture.)
(Directions appear when you hover over each picture.)
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