I'm always delighted to be asked to visit schools, libraries and festivals and like to bring a sense of fun to my visits.
Outlined below are details of my Virtual visits; Author talks; Creative workshops & Craft workshops.
I can tailor my talks and workshops to KS1 & KS2 and use pictures, props and game-play to help stimulate ideas and keep the children engaged.
Author Talks (suitable for large groups)
I lead fun and interactive talks for children, lasting between 45 minutes to an hour. My talks are
full of engaging activities that aim to bring kids together and encourage their creativity and
imagination.
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I start by sharing a sneak peek into my life as a storyteller and my journey from reluctant reader
to published author. I also share some of my earliest writing attempts that are sure to bring a smile
to the children's faces.
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Next, I invite the kids to participate in imaginative activities designed to encourage their creativity.
Depending on the age group and time available, these activities may include:
• Inviting a few lucky children to join in on the fun by dressing up as a character from "An Alien in the Jam Factory" and working together with the audience to invent a unique flavour of jam (using imaginative ingredients and some simple materials).
• Making a character from a single Brussels sprout and bringing it to life with a unique backstory.
• Crafting their own tales of adventure with a treasure trove of intriguing objects to choose from.
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With every activity, I hope to inspire the children to let their minds run wild and unleash the power of their own imaginations.
“Our children (and staff) really enjoyed Chrissie's visit - there was a real buzz throughout the school. The children were so inspired when they found out about Chrissie's route into writing - it really motivated them!”
Workshops
​My creative workshops use themes from 'An Alien in the Jam Factory' as a springboard to help the
children come up with new and unusual story ideas.
They are aimed at smaller class-sized groups and focus on the fun side of being creative and using
your imagination. I try to keep the talks very interactive, ask questions and encourage lots of participation.
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My workshops last from around 45 minutes to an hour (subject to age group) and can be adapted to suit both KS1 & KS2. I'm always happy to tailor sessions as required. A sample of my workshops can be found below.
Chrissie's presentational style was very engaging and she could literally have stayed all day as the children had so many questions! The rest of the day saw children's noses almost glued to their copy of 'An Alien in the Jam Factory!'
It was a wonderful morning!
Jam-Tastic Inventions
We start by looking at a jar of jam and discussing its properties.
The children then go onto develop a brand new jam invention of their own.
Pets with Personality
The children develop a fun new animal character, using a pet or favourite animal as inspiration. A fun session, with lots of sharing of funny pet stories.
Design Super-Jam!
The children create a new flavour of super-jam! What power would it give them? Are there side effects? How can we make it different & unusual?
Fizzing Factories
The children design a factory of their own, using the methods that I used to create McLay's Jam Factory.
The wackier the ideas, the better!
Virtual Visits
My author talks and workshops can all be adapted to a virtual setting, using a platform of your choice.
“I just wanted to express my thanks for this morning's virtual visit - it was utterly wonderful! The buzz in the classroom here since has been incredible - I really think you have inspired many budding authors!”
“Thank you so much Chrissie for such a lovely virtual visit today. Would definitely recommend your visits. The children have already been asking if they can see you again!”
​Sometimes a craft session can work best for a younger audience. Here's a sample of some of the arts and craft sessions that I can lead, either virtually or in-person. This can also incorporate a reading and Q&A session.
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Make alien-filled jam tarts
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Finger-painting aliens and guinea pigs
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Make cardboard standing guinea-pigs
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Make Fizzbee antennae
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Make cardboard treasure chests
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Make character lolly sticks and put on a play
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Treasure hunt
Craft Sessions
I offer a number of options at various rates to suit most budgets. To find out more, please contact me using the button below or alternatively, you can email me at chrissiesainsauthor@gmail.com for more information.​