When is it a frog toy, not just a children’s frog toy? When is Polly the Traveling Frog! It is true that it is a stuffed animal and yes, it is a frog, but it turns out that it is also much, much more. Let me start at the beginning, because as we all know, it is a very good starting point.
As an elementary reading specialist, I was concerned that children would lag behind in their basic reading and writing skills and, of course, their geographic literacy skills. Some of the third and fourth graders I knew couldn’t answer basic questions about the world and their writing skills were alarming. He wanted to find a way that would not only improve these deficient skills, but also motivate his desire to learn.
Out of this need, my friend and I created Polly the Travel Frog, an educational plush frog and website designed to get kids (and adults) excited about learning. Our goal was to build a global community of participants who would communicate and share their travel experiences, classroom activities, or fun family adventures for others to read and comment on.
Enter Polly, a friendly little frog who wants to travel the world. His personal goal is to meet new people and learn new things. Her friendly smile is contagious and everyone who knows her wants to get involved.
Teachers:
Get your students involved in the writing process by having them write and publish stories about Polly. They can also read stories written by others and leave comments for them. This activity can easily be set up as a literacy center if you have computers in your classroom, or it can be done in a computer lab environment. If you want your students to become better writers, they must practice daily. The kids really love Polly and will ask to participate on a daily basis.
Fathers:
Use Polly the Travel Frog as a fun way to document family vacations and excursions. Take photos of Polly and write about your family’s adventures through the eyes of this curious little frog. Your kids will beg you to help them write and, as the old saying goes, “practice makes perfect!”
Grandparents:
Do you want to encourage your grandchildren to learn about the world? You can take Polly with you on your next vacation and, when you return home, post your photos and stories on Polly’s website. Your grandchildren will be able to watch your adventures online and leave comments for you. It’s fun!
The best thing about Polly the Travel Frog is that the kids love her! He’s a cute stuffed frog, who does so much more than just sit on a shelf!
