UP CLOSE
Why do you choose to write about such
topics? What are you hoping to achieve? teaching. Not everyone learns in the same
way.
To make a difference in the world. To
be able to help young people be more
confident while learning about differences.
To make better human beings. How can they best incorporate your
books in their teachings?
I understand you are
illustrator. Can you
you developed those
philosophy behind your
also your own
tell me how
skills, and the
illustration?
I taught myself to draw by tracing the
dog Snoopy. I’ve always used black lines
to start. I’ve always loved very simple
illustrations. Someone once referred to
my art as the work of a six year old. I think
that’s why kids are so drawn to my work
because they think they can draw better
than me. I encourage that.
You recently visited China and had a chance
to visit all of our Kindergarten programs,
from our Ivy Academy, Ivy Bilingual, to Ivy
MI Kindergarten. What were some of your
observations/takeaways?
I had a great time. Everyone was so inviting
and warm. You can always tell a school
that has passionate teachers and staff.
What would be your top pieces of advice
for teachers?
Find the positives in everything with
someone.
Help build self-confidence in children.
Have fun, step outside the box with your
Ivy Schools Fall/Winter Edition 2018
There are lesson plans available for many
of my books. “It’s Okay to Be Different”
is always a good book to start off the
new school year. The “The Family Book”
is good as well. They help get everyone
introduced in the class and kids are able
to learn about differences.
What about parents? What would be your
top pieces of advice for parents?
Don’t push. If your child is interested in
art but only wanted to draw in black and
white. Leave it alone. They will eventually
find their way. Encouragement. Allow for
mistakes. That’s how kids learn.
How can parents best encourage their
children to develop a love of reading?
To read with them. Let them see you
reading on your own. Engage them, talk
about the book, favorite parts, colors, etc.
What is your next project?
A new pre-school TV show called Doodle
and Noodle Poodle - based on the premise
of my books.
What is your one biggest advice, for kids?
BE WHO YOU ARE.