Programs Grades K-6
Grades
Children in grades K- 6 will particularly enjoy this presentation.
Length
The program is best presented to groups of children of 100 or less. Groups of two to three classes work best as it allow for more interaction and group dialogue. However, larger groups will be accommodated if necessary. Allow 1 hour for each session
You Have the Light! (for Students)
I begin by reading the book to the children. In the story, Amanda receives a fortune cookie. The message comes true when she gives her fortune to someone else.
Each child is encouraged to think of ways that they might be able to help someone else. To facilitate this, each child receives a fortune cookie with a special message that helps them to think of ways how they, like Amanda, can make a difference. There is literally not enough time, as EVERY child wants to share his or her thoughts on how they can “be the brightest light.”
A short news video of Amanda and Dr. Malko is then shown. This helps the children identify with Amanda when they realize that Amanda is a real person just like themselves. Seeing both Amanda and Dr. Malko live on television brings these characters in the book to life!
Following this we do a service learning project (an academic lesson, a community service project, and reflection). This can be customized to your school. This gives the children hands-on experience and a first-hand view of how you help yourself when you help others. For example, a science lesson is taught about oral hygiene and why people lose their teeth. The children now have a greater understanding of the value and power of putting together hygiene bags for those in need. A community representative then comes to pick up the bags and to acknowledge the efforts of the students. Reflection follows with a discussion of what the students learned, who they helped, and how it made them feel.
These presentations are unique in that students identify with the main character of the book by engaging in a service project themselves. Children will find the program to be highly inspirational, motivational, engaging, and FUN!
Creating a Culture of Character (for educators)
“The workshop with Mrs. Perlyn was wonderful, sincere and moving. It is the first professional development experience I’ve participated in, where the presenter actually cared about what each individual participant had to say and what they were gaining from being there.” Participating teacher, Miami–Dade County schools
This is a four to five hour inspirational and informative program for teachers, counselors, and principals to introduce them to service learning projects and books for character education. A thematic unit will be given to each educator. This is a professional development day that is guaranteed to make you laugh, cry, and stay with you forever!
Fees
$550 plus minimal travel expenses for up to 4 sessions. Evening presentations are an additional $200 when booked in conjunction with a full day program.
