Vickie's School Programs and Workshops

ABC Draw With Me!

This is a popular and interactive literacy session for teachers and students, with lots of hands-on activity! Children learn how to draw using Vickie's unique ABC Draw With Me method. Children will use lap desks, pencils, and an autographed cartoon sheet provided by Vickie. As the kids work with the author/illustrator, they will hear how becoming a reader at age 20 changed Vickie's life forever. At the end of the session, students will have completed their own ABC Draw With Me resource page for cartooning in the classroom and at home. Children will be motivated to improve their handwriting skills by practicing their alphabet cartoon characters. This program has been effective for children with learning disabilities! It is 30 to 45 minutes long and is recommended for ages 7 and up. It is fantastic for a back-to-school night or for a family literacy program - even the parent participate!

Cucumber Soup

It's the ultimate celebration, when only one tiny flea comes to the rescue. Students will have a wild and wiggly time as Vickie reads her award-winning book, Cucumber Soup. Who said reading had to be boring? Vickie shows young readers what a little drama can do to spice up reading. Children take part in a dramatic reenactment of the book. From the ten little black ants to the teeny-tiny flea, kids love repeating the catchy refrain. A surprise ending thrills young students and teachers alike! This program is 30 to 45 minutes long. A teacher's quide is available at no additional charge.

Hiking Through Colorado History

Did you know that Colorado was once part of an oceanic chain of islands? Did you know that giant mammoths and prehistoric camels once roamed parts of Colorado? From dinosaurs to the space age, Hiking Through Colorado History will encourage students to complete their own family timeline for Colorado! Excellent visual aids.

Young Authors and Illustrators Workshop

After more than six years, Vickie's six-week session is packed full of professional tips and fun ways to explore the world of words. Her ABCs of writing inspire students to do their very best! Children especially love the "Gummi Worms and Words" writing exercise. During the six-week session students will learn to write a rough draft, edit their copy, complete a final draft, illustrate their story, and participated in a mini "critique" session. Following all that, they will celebrate their accomplishments with a published copy of their book and Young Author/Illustrator Celebration in their honor. This workshop is limited to sixty students. Please call for details, references, and pricing.

Teachers As Writers

This workshop is excellent for teachers who are interested in beginning their writing careers. Vickie will work with teachers by helping them assess their writing styles and utilize their classroom skills to create unique and marketable stories, articles, or craft columns. In addition, teachers will complete hands-on writing assignments during the three-hour session. Workshop packets and materials are provided, so just bring your creativity. This program is promoted by the Colorado Chapter of the International Reading Association and grants may be available. Please call for pricing.