If we are to encourage the children around us to dream, we should show them that we dream too. Pause in your day to reflect outloud about a dream you have. Maybe it is one of those “long shot” dreams - or perhaps a dream of having more live plants in the room. (See how many plants you accumulate after saying that outloud!) Write about your dreams in story or in a poem. Share with your students or your children. Paint your dream and frame it. Remind yourself and others that dreams are wonderful things to have around you.

I love asking that question to kids.What do you want to be when you grow up? Kindergarteners and first graders are the quickest to answer - and they usually have two asnwers at the ready. Unusual pairings like — race car driver or lawyer. Ballerina or president. I think that kids are on to something. They are able to see creative possibilities. The same brain, energy and spirit might be able to do either job - or even combine them. The singing dentist. The pilot author. The dancing President.

How do we encourage this kind of creative thinking in grades beyond first grade?

By the way, it is never too late to ask “What do you want to be when you grow up?” The happiest people I know are still taking their time to grow up.

I just want to thank all those folks who have been so supportive of the North Star Community site.  The emails and calls have really helped.  After the site was attacked late last year, it took the wind from my sails.  It was a lot of work lost - and it took me a bit to get back into my groove. 
But it’s notes like this that remind me that what we are doing - is helping make a difference even if in the smallest ways: 

As I begin another school year I would like to thank you for putting into works and illustrations what I have believed my whole teaching life.  I began this year again reading and or acting out depending on the grade The North Star Journey, using my Smartboard and your internet site.  Vashti is on my board challenging students to make their marks.  My boat for our Journey is on my south wall and the types of learners we are is waiting patiently on my east board.For the first time in my 52 years I have picked up a paintbrush and a water color set and have been trying this out.  Thanks!!!!!!! for all that you do.
Susan B.

Let’s hoist these sails back up - and keep moving forward.

Paul Reynolds, North Star Community