JoWhittemore Ladies and gents, it's the top of the hour. Time to get our #MGLitchat on!!! #mglitchat -9:00 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf Question No. 1: How do you snag a school visit? #MGLitChat -9:00 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore Tonight's topic is school visits, and I'm joined by lovely co-host @karenninaposa. #mglitchat -9:01 PM Sep 13th, 2012
MundieMoms RT @JoWhittemore: Ladies and gents, it's the top of the hour. Time to get our #MGLitchat on!!! #mglitchat -9:01 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa Hi everyone! Welcome to tonight's chat on school visits! #mglitchat -9:02 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @AniProf I admit a did a double-take on your avatar #mglitchat -9:02 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore We begin with an essential part of school visits...GETTING THE VISIT. #mglitchat -9:03 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @AniProf no.1: I started with teacher friends on Twitter, then got connected by public librarians & indie booksellers #mglitchat -9:03 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf @KarenninaPosa Just one of my sketches for a book I'm working on. #MGLitChat -9:03 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa Perfect place to start! RT @JoWhittemore: We begin with an essential part of school visits...GETTING THE VISIT. #mglitchat -9:03 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters Hello, host and co-host! Also other chatters, natch! *waves* #mglitchat -9:03 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Jess_Keating RT @JoWhittemore: Tonight's topic is school visits, and I'm joined by lovely co-host @karenninaposa. #mglitchat -9:04 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf Do you need a press kit to get school visits? #MGLitChat -9:04 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters RT @JoWhittemore: LOL! What can you do? Haters gonna hate. ;-P They see us chattin'...they hatin'! #mglitchat -9:04 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore What's worked for other people? For me, I reached out to librarians at conferences, mailing brochures, and posting on my website. #mglitchat -9:04 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry I'd been a school library volunteer for more than a dozen years before my book came out so I started w/ those contacts. #mglitchat -9:04 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore That was the most poorly worded sentence I've ever constructed. Sorry! #mglitchat -9:05 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @RosanneParry Word of mouth and established networks are always a great place to start! #mglitchat -9:05 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry I've also presented at local library conferences, Eng. teacher conferences, and done back to school nights for local booksellers. #mglitchat -9:06 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore Do you need a press kit? No. A simple brochure of your offerings with your contact info and bio printed on will work. #mglitchat -9:06 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto I didn't have a press kit at first, but it's helpful when establishing new connections. I have it now. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @JoWhittemore No need to apologize. There is no shame in #mglitchat! Well, I have no shame, anyway. :-D -9:07 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @ilanawaters Hahaha! #mglitchat -9:07 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf @michaelascotto What would you include in a press kit? #MGLitChat -9:07 PM Sep 13th, 2012
elliefalcone @JoWhittemore As an MG author, what do you offer? Totally uneducated in this. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia We frequently start w/indie bookstores who have contacts with their local schools (hi there! kellie from @waldenpondpress here) #mglitchat -9:08 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry volunteering at your public library is also a great place to start. Some have a teen council or Newbery club. #mglitchat -9:08 PM Sep 13th, 2012
elliefalcone @ilanawaters No shame is the best kind of shame to have. #mglitchat -9:08 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa Is it acceptable to "cold call" (ie., just go ahead and introduce yourself) if you don't have school/library connections? #mglitchat -9:08 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @Whimsicallyours Hey, have you heard of #Mglitchat? If you're around, we're on NOW!! -9:08 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore If you have kids, start out by maybe doing a complementary visit to the classroom. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Sep 13th, 2012
coachhays64 @JoWhittemore Do most of you start local then expand your circle for school visits? Contact librarians or teachers? #mglitchat -9:09 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @KarenninaPosa That's what I did. I just mailed brochures to different schools. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @Kellie_Celia An indy bookseller often has good contacts w/ local teachers. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa Good tip! RT @JoWhittemore: If you have kids, start out by maybe doing a complementary visit to the classroom. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @AniProf It's not too complex; basic bio, book info, summary of the different talks I offer, a press clipping or two. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf It's funny, but as a storyteller I've been pretty successful, even getting callbacks from libraries. But as an author ... ? #MGLitChat -9:10 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @elliefalcone LOL. Word, yo! #mglitchat Okay, I'm getting off topic. This is worse than the time I brought the beer. -9:10 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore So the ? is being posed: Who do you reach out to if you don't know anyone? I started with the magnate & charter schools. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Sep 13th, 2012
LaurelSnyder I find the hardest part is doing the same thing over and over, so starting with a freebie one-session assembly is a nice idea. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore Also, schools that have achieved high honors for education and the arts. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa How about getting involved in professional organizations (librarians, reading associations)? Has anyone done this? #mglitchat -9:11 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia @RosanneParry Indeed, they are a great resource. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto RT @RosanneParry: @Kellie_Celia An indy bookseller often has good contacts w/ local teachers. #mglitchat -9:12 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia @RoseanneParry & many stores will frequently coordinate the visits and set up a means of selling books into the school #mglitchat -9:12 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf Interesting ... http://t.co/MqDti0P2 #MGLitChat -9:12 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @coachhays64 depending on your content, guidance counselors can be a good contact also #mglitchat -9:12 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters Um, random question: what if you are terrified of the actual children? Not that I am...*whistles, looks around* #mglitchat -9:13 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf And ... http://t.co/hZpP3dtG #MGLitChat -9:13 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @LaurelSnyder Was it you who did 100 visits last year? Crazy! #mglitchat -9:13 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @elliefalcone I offer sessions on character creation, writing humor, world-building, a day in the life of a writer... #mglitchat -9:13 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @Whimsicallyours We're over here discussing school visits, if you want to join. *pulls out chair* #mglitchat -9:14 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf @michaelascotto Guidance counselors, eh? That's who I send stuff to for a summer camp I run. #MGLitChat -9:14 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia We find librarians the best contacts (probably pretty obvious), but also principals, PTO Presidents, involved parents #mglitchat -9:14 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @Whimsicallyours We're chattin' every Thurs. at 9 EST, and um, earlier in other time zones! #mglitchat -9:14 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @ilanawaters Hehe! Terrified in what aspect? #mglitchat -9:14 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf @JoWhittemore So you're saying, make the visit have an educational component, yes? #MGLitChat -9:15 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia RT @JoWhittemore: @elliefalcone I offer sessions on character creation, writing humor, world-building, a day in the life of a ... #mglitchat -9:15 PM Sep 13th, 2012
elliefalcone @JoWhittemore Ok, that makes sense. Focus on writing stuff. #mglitchat -9:15 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore You can also do a multi-author offering for schools (two for the price of one or two for a discounted price). #mglitchat -9:15 PM Sep 13th, 2012
LaurelSnyder @dianezahler Yep! And it was amazing. Skype is wonderful for me, so much easier... #mglitchat -9:15 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @AniProf Always! #mglitchat -9:15 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @Kellie_Celia True but often you don't get paid for the visit, just royalties on the book sales, usually a few dozen at most. #mglitchat -9:15 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @ilanawaters lol. Just pretend they're characters in your books, and you'll be fine. ;) #mglitchat -9:16 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @Kellie_Celia I've found luck with literacy coaches and reading specialists as well. People who champion books #mglitchat -9:16 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @LaurelSnyder No worry about what to wear... #mglitchat -9:16 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore The sessions that you offer should be both educational and entertaining. It also helps if they can be interactive. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Sep 13th, 2012
hatbooks All about school visits--now on #mglitchat (10 am Japan time) #mglitchat -9:17 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia @RosanneParry - True, but not always, some bookstores still work with honorarium authors #mglitchat -9:17 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @AniProf The educational component is what teachers are looking for, IMO. Not just, here's this book and its author #mglitchat -9:17 PM Sep 13th, 2012
_TimothyPower I've been to a few, some with multiple classes, but always in a classroom. An auditorium would be daunting! #MGlitchat -9:17 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa RT @JoWhittemore: The sessions you offer should be both educational and entertaining. It also helps if they can be interactive. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ixtumea I was asked if I could do a workshop on writing for teens just yesterday from a librarian. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @JoWhittemore I don't know...they're small, they bite... *trembles* I guess public speaking is not my forte. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ixtumea And today from a writing teacher at a charter school. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @hatbooks I didn't realize you're in Japan. *waves* :) #mglitchat -9:18 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia @RosanneParry And stores that are adept at setting up pre-orders can nab you many more sales #mglitchat -9:18 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @ilanawaters If you don't ADORE working w/ kids why do it? It's tons of work & not required. Many authors don't. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Sep 13th, 2012
_TimothyPower The kids I feared most were the ones that would not say a word. Hooray for talkative kids! #MGlitchat -9:18 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock I started out by doing an author visit for the school my kids were attending. Snowballed from there #mglitchat -9:18 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore To recap: Reach out to librarians, booksellers, your kids' (or neighbor's kids') schools or just send your material to schools. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia RT @JoWhittemore: The sessions you offer should be both educational and entertaining. It also helps if they can be interactive. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @ilanawaters I find it really really hard too. But I'm hoping it will get easier. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Sep 13th, 2012
hatbooks SCBWI members--be sure to read the Resource Library for the sections on school visits and international school visits. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock #mglitchat After 2-3 freebies I started charging full ASA rates (now $600 for 3 x 45-min sessions in a day) -9:19 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ixtumea Since I'm a former teacher, I've been able to use those contacts. Also with church, local libraries, and son's charter school. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @_TimothyPower the larger the crowd the harder q&a can be to coordinate #mglitchat -9:19 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf How about info on some specific visits you've made in the past? Details? #MGLitChat -9:19 PM Sep 13th, 2012
hatbooks @KarenninaPosa yes, good morning from Japan! #mglitchat -9:19 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock #mglitchat I never do book sales, and I don't self-promote. I just promote reading, writing, the life of an author. -9:19 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore You should be prepared to provide: a few topics you can speak on, your speaking fee, your resume, an invoice, and a contract #mglitchat -9:19 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @AniProf @JoWhittemore If it doesn't fit the core curric. most schools won't have me no matter how much they like the book. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @_TimothyPower I imagine it's easier dealing with talkative kids than a totally silent room of kids. #mglitchat -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
LaurelSnyder @dianezahler Right. And they can see the "real me" and meet my dog and it feels very spontaneous. #mglitchat -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore You may not need all those things, as some schools have them, but it's good to be prepared. #mglitchat -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @spacejock Are your 3 sessions the same or all different? #mglitchat -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock #mglitchat Kids love anecdotes, especially if you make fun of yourself. I grew up in Spain so lots of material. -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @RosanneParry Awww. That's sad! :( <---See? #mglitchat -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
rachelgrinti Ack, I'm late! How did I lose track of time? #mglitchat -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia @ilanawaters @RosanneParry That's my instinct too, I wouldn't advise an author to do visits if he/she would be very uncomfortable #mglitchat -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @RosanneParry I do like kids--really! I just never know what to say in front of them. I mean besides, "you wanna cookie?" #mglitchat -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ixtumea I remember as a teacher the kids loved author visits. One of our favorites had to be the 1 author who would draw illustrations. #mglitchat -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @spacejock What is ASA? #mglitchat -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
jodyfeldman @_TimothyPower And then there's the gym with bleachers on both sides. You learn how to work a room fast #mglitchat -9:20 PM Sep 13th, 2012
elliefalcone What are the fees you guys charge? #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @Kellie_Celia Good to know. That's never been my experience. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock @dianezahler All three sessions the same. (Different kids for each one.) I ad-lib a fair bit though. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf @rachelgrinti Welcome! #MGLitChat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ixtumea Another one brought all his rejections and posted them on this 3 sided folder. That was interesting. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
lisabrowndraws I like skype, but in person makes me less anxious for some reason... #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
LaurelSnyder It really does build. Teachers talk to each other, so one really great visit can turn into invites. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa RT @JoWhittemore: be prepared to provide: a few topics you can speak on, speaking fee, resume, an invoice, and a contract #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @ilanawaters The thing that you have to remember (and love) is that they are so very excited to see you!! #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @dianezahler Oh good! I mean, not good that you find it hard, just good that I'm not alone. :-) #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
lisabrowndraws Working on a new school presentation right now. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
rachelgrinti @ilanawaters I think you get more comfortable as you do it more often and stare at more and more groups of kids. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @spacejock I wish I could ad-lib. I overprepare instead. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
_TimothyPower @jodyfeldman That would be a definite challenge! #MGlitchat -9:21 PM Sep 13th, 2012
hatbooks Definitely develop curriculum tie-ins for your presentations. I start working on school visit ideas as I'm writing my books. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Sep 13th, 2012
elliefalcone I have a cat on my laptop and am having a difficult time typing. excuse my poor grammar and such. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock @KarenninaPosa Australian society of authors. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ixtumea When I taught at Tustin, I was on a committee that got to chose which authors would come to do presentations. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf How often do you do school visits? #MGLitChat -9:22 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ixtumea @LaurelSnyder Yes, as a former teacher, I can vouch for this. If we love something, we ask for more. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock #mglitchat My prime directive is 'don't bore the kids'. Hard to keep their interest up for 45-50 mins. -9:23 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia @michaelascotto I agree - definitely good connections to make #mglitchat -9:23 PM Sep 13th, 2012
_TimothyPower I've Skyped to classrooms, too. It can get a little confusing. You can't really "read" the room. #MGlitchat -9:23 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @JoWhittemore Dawww...I hope so! #mglitchat -9:23 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock #mglitchat I've been doing author visits since 2005 - probably 5-6 days per year ever since. Happy to share advice/tips/etc. -9:24 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @ixtumea I know an author-illustrator who always seems fully booked for school visits. Makes me wish I could draw. ;) #mglitchat -9:24 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @rachelgrinti Got it. Will go out randomly staring at groups of kids as practice. Wait...maybe that's not a good idea...#mglitchat -9:24 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @ilanawaters maybe start with a smaller more controlled situation. Mother-daughter book club? girl scout troop? And practice! #mglitchat -9:24 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore So you've got a school asking you to come for a visit...what next? Preparation!! #mglitchat -9:24 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @AniProf Last year I averaged one every other week. Hoping to up that this year #mglitchat -9:24 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock @dianezahler #mglitchat I always over-prepare, but once I get going it sort of works out by itself. -9:24 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia @spacejock Good directive :) Definitely important to be interactive, funny, and find ways to connect with your audience #mglitchat -9:24 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler Do you all use powerpoint? I did that for one, seemed to go well. The visuals helped keep interest. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa Best tip! RT @spacejock: My prime directive is dont bore the kids. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock It becomes 2nd nature RT: @rachelgrinti: @ilanawaters I think you get more comfortable as you do it more often . #mglitchat -9:25 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf @michaelascotto (jealous) #MGLitChat -9:25 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry RT @LaurelSnyder: It really does build. Teachers talk to each other, so one really great visit can turn into invites. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore What is your presentation medium? Are you an artist? Will you draw? Do you use PowerPoint? Will you bring items to show & tell? #mglitchat -9:25 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @RosanneParry Thanks--I'll think about it. In the meantime, I'll get really good at cowering behind my computer. :-) #mglitchat -9:25 PM Sep 13th, 2012
hatbooks Skype visits require different preparation. You can also send schools a power point that you and they play while skyping. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Sep 13th, 2012
LaurelSnyder @lisabrowndraws That's so interesting. The opposite for me. In person, I get all twisted up in the repetition and my clothes. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock 5-6 days per year, usually. CBW and a couple of festivals @AniProf: How often do you do school visits? #MGLitChat -9:26 PM Sep 13th, 2012
story_queen As an author who teacher elementary, I guess I get to do school visits every day! #mglitchat -9:26 PM Sep 13th, 2012
jodyfeldman @dianezahler Yes to PowerPoint ...but I basically use pictures to illustrate, hold attention ... not lots of words #mglitchat -9:26 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @dianezahler I always use PowerPoint. It holds attention, gives visual examples AND helps me remember what I'm talking about. :) #mglitchat -9:26 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KDuBayGillis @Kellie_Celia @spacejock I want to know who dresses up....in character/costume. #mglitchat -9:27 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @_TimothyPower Love Skype because I can still get in a full day of writing. #mglitchat -9:27 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @hatbooks How do you both do powerpoint at once? #mglitchat -9:27 PM Sep 13th, 2012
rachelgrinti @JoWhittemore I've used powerpoint, which I like for showing big pictures, but I've had issues w/ school computers. #mglitchat -9:27 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @AniProf the build @laurelsnyder mentioned started after a few months, and the visits gained their own momentum to an extent #mglitchat -9:27 PM Sep 13th, 2012
_TimothyPower @story_queen :-) #MGlitchat -9:27 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder You...you get twisted up in your clothes? Often? Cuz maybe a different size... #mglitchat -9:27 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf RT @dianezahler: @hatbooks How do you both do powerpoint at once? #MGLitChat -9:27 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto Oddly enough, l use more PowerPoint when speaking with parent groups than their kids #mglitchat -9:28 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @rachelgrinti I bring my laptop and a version on thumb drive just in case they won't let me use my own. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock #mglitchat Re powerpoint: never read off the slides. I show funny pics, questions, etc, and they have to listen to get the answer/story. -9:28 PM Sep 13th, 2012
rachelgrinti @story_queen I have a weekly writing group of 4-6 graders at the library, but I work there so I'm just "Miss Rachel" So fun :) #mglitchat -9:28 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto If I'm doing a picture book reading, though, projection is key #mglitchat -9:28 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia @KDuBayGillis @spacejock I've have a feeling @StudioJJK has dressed up at a school visit or two ;) #mglitchat -9:28 PM Sep 13th, 2012
story_queen However, my PTA pays for sub days for me so I can visit other classes as an author--usually assemblies #mglitchat -9:28 PM Sep 13th, 2012
LaurelSnyder @JoWhittemore I mean EMOTIONALLY. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Sep 13th, 2012
hatbooks For school visits--PowerPoint, props, interactive activities, audience participation, variety, & plans for all ages and groups. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore If you must use PowerPoint, remember a picture is worth a thousand words. Don't make each slide a novel. #mglitchat -9:29 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @michaelascotto What do you talk about with parent groups? #mglitchat -9:29 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @dianezahler Kids love the visual of powerpoint, but always have a back up in case the tech doesn't work. #mglitchat -9:29 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock Not me! RT: @KDuBayGillis: @Kellie_Celia I want to know who dresses up....in character/costume. #mglitchat -9:29 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia @michaelascotto Do you travel, Skype, or mostly stay local? #mglitchat -9:29 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @story_queen That's really cool of them! #mglitchat -9:29 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa All words, no pictures/illustrations would bore kids. I know I pretty pictures keep me awake during a presentation #mglitchat -9:29 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder :D #mglitchat -9:29 PM Sep 13th, 2012
LaurelSnyder @RosanneParry And I don't have to pay for childcare. #mglitchat -9:29 PM Sep 13th, 2012
story_queen @rachelgrinti I used to run a writing club! I loved it! *sigh* Hoping to do it again sometime, but.......#mglitchat -9:29 PM Sep 13th, 2012
rachelgrinti @JoWhittemore Yeah, I had thumb drive and everything was set up, but their powerpoint wasn't up to date I didn't save as older v. #mglitchat -9:29 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock #mglitchat I take my own laptop loaded with the presentation, and a thumb drive with the same just in case. -9:30 PM Sep 13th, 2012
rachelgrinti @JoWhittemore Bringing your own equipment when possible is definitely good for peace of mind. #mglitchat -9:30 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler Great advice. RT @RosanneParry Kids love the visual of powerpoint, but always have a back up in case the tech doesnt work. #mglitchat -9:30 PM Sep 13th, 2012
LaurelSnyder @RosanneParry The down side to power point is that you come to rely on it. When you're UP and ON, kids don't need it. #mglitchat -9:30 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa Dressing up as a character would be cool and fun for the kids. Something they'll remember, I'm sure #mglitchat -9:30 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock #mglitchat My presentation consists of dozens of jpgs. Don't trust powerpoint etc to behave, so I use a slideshow instead. -9:30 PM Sep 13th, 2012
story_queen @michaelascotto I know. I am pretty lucky. Once a month I get to be the StoryQueen for the school. srsly--with a crown. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @dianezahler I give a workshop on the value of creativity & how to encourage it at home...I call it Building Creative Muscle #mglitchat -9:31 PM Sep 13th, 2012
elliefalcone RT @LaurelSnyder: The down side to power point is that you come to rely on it. When youre UP and ON, kids dont need it. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Sep 13th, 2012
hatbooks @AniProf School opens my powerpoint, has it ready, we skype, when I say go, they minimize me, turn to powerpoint. I keep talking. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Sep 13th, 2012
jjhoutman RT @spacejock: #mglitchat My presentation consists of dozens of jpgs. Don't trust powerpoint etc to behave, so I use a slideshow instead. -9:31 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @Whimsicallyours No problem. Since you are a budding MG-ist, I thought you should know about #Mglitchat! -9:31 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @story_queen Your school's lucky to have a built-in author visit! #mglitchat -9:32 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore Also, make sure you've prepared time to explain each slide AND take questions. Because kids ALWAYS have questions. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto RT @LaurelSnyder: The down side to power point is that you come to rely on it. When youre UP and ON, kids dont need it. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @hatbooks I do Skype visits from my tree house office in the spring and fall. Kids adore it! #mglitchat -9:32 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @hatbooks I am way too much of a luddite for that. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Sep 13th, 2012
hatbooks Yes, always! RT @RosanneParry Kids love the visual of powerpoint, but always have a back up in case the tech doesn't work. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KateMessner @hatbooks @AniProf When I do Skype visits w/ PowerPoint, I usually have schools set up 2 projectors - one for me, one for slides. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @michaelascotto Who's your audience for 'Building Creative Muscle'? Sorry if I missed it in the chat. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JMoraski RT @JoWhittemore: Ladies and gents, it's the top of the hour. Time to get our #MGLitchat on!!! #mglitchat -9:33 PM Sep 13th, 2012
hatbooks RT @KateMessner: When I do Skype visits w/ PowerPoint, I usually have schools set up 2 projectors - one for me, one for slides. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Sep 13th, 2012
rachelgrinti @JoWhittemore Yes, I've definitely run out of time for questions. Kids have awesome questions and they have a lot of them! #mglitchat -9:33 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JMoraski RT @WaldenPondPress: Don't forget #mglitchat at 9:00pm ET! Tonight's topic: school visits -9:33 PM Sep 13th, 2012
story_queen @dianezahler I am lucky as well. I get to hang out with my intended audience A LOT. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Sep 13th, 2012
coachhays64 How much variation in allotted time for author visit presentation do you usually see at schools? At libraries? #mglitchat -9:33 PM Sep 13th, 2012
hatbooks @KateMessner Yes, two projectors works, too! #mglitchat -9:34 PM Sep 13th, 2012
SpencerToday @elliefalcone Late…just waiting for Madonna to hit the stage. :) Has anyone mentioned asking if the schools have smartboards? #mglitchat -9:34 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore Usually, when you're prepping for a visit, school will ask what you need. Don't be afraid to ask for that projector & microphone. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Sep 13th, 2012
jodyfeldman I've tried the Skype screenshare option, but it doesn't always work. Anyone have success with that? #mglitchat -9:34 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @KarenninaPosa Mostly I see Title I fams. It's 4 parents who want to support their kids' creativity but are unsure how to engage #mglitchat -9:34 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock #mglitchat I find no. of questions depends on age. Younger kids won't stop asking, older kids (12+) not so keen. Peer pressure? -9:35 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @LaurelSnyder Or get a substitute for the car pool! #mglitchat -9:35 PM Sep 13th, 2012
jjhoutman If they offer a microphone, use it. It's amazing how quickly one's voice can deteriorate. #mglitchat -9:35 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore And be prepared for something to go wrong! Think of worst-case scenarios and have back-up plans. #mglitchat -9:35 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @spacejock @KDuBayGillis @Kellie_Celia That actually sounds like fun! At least then I'd know WHY kids were laughing @ me...#mglitchat -9:35 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @KateMessner Then does the school show yr slides/powerpoint on their projector as you tell them to? #mglitchat -9:36 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @jodyfeldman that was great for doing picture books on World Read Aloud Day #mglitchat -9:36 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto RT @jjhoutman: If they offer a microphone, use it. Its amazing how quickly ones voice can deteriorate. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KateMessner @coachhays64 My school visits are 45-60 minutes for upper elementary kids, usually 30 minutes for PreK-2. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @rachelgrinti And sometimes they're cute and absolutely unrelated to the subject at hand. :) #mglitchat -9:36 PM Sep 13th, 2012
coachhays64 @JoWhittemore Yes! Most schools have cool technology to work with. Make sure it's compatible and test ahead of time, if possible. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @rachelgrinti @JoWhittemore OMG, yes. NEVER rely on school equipment. Used to take my teachers a full class just to start VCR. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Sep 13th, 2012
jodyfeldman @michaelascotto It worked okay for you? Maybe I'm doing something wrong :) #mglitchat -9:37 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KateMessner @dianezahler Yep - I provide verbal cues. ("And on the next slide, you'll see how I researched what it's like to kiss a frog...") #mglitchat -9:37 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @michaelascotto Ok, got it. I was momentarily confused about how you do it in a school context #mglitchat -9:37 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @LaurelSnyder I agree! Kids want the story behind the story. Love it when I pass around cowboy stuff or play fiddle with them. #mglitchat -9:37 PM Sep 13th, 2012
rachelgrinti @JoWhittemore Yeah, those are awesome too. #mglitchat -9:37 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @jodyfeldman I've had it lag a lot at times, though, so maybe not :) #mglitchat -9:37 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @KarenninaPosa Dress up works very well for historical fiction! #mglitchat -9:38 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @story_queen @michaelascotto I'm currently reading your "Seven Tales of Trinket." You are DEFINITELY the queen! #mglitchat -9:38 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @coachhays64 Yes, your presentation should be up and running before the kids even come in! #mglitchat -9:39 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @RosanneParry I think it should be a requirement for historical fiction! What fun! #mglitchat -9:39 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @coachhays64 45-90 min. I always flex my presentation to fit their schedule. Easier for everyone. Scheduling's a huge hassle. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore Also...know what you're getting into before the visit (a contract can be helpful). Extra students tend to magically appear. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Sep 13th, 2012
hatbooks KateMessner @dianezahler In addition to verbal cues during the skype/PP presentation, I send teachers my plan in advance w/ cues. #mglitchat -9:41 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AvidBookshop True! RT @laurelsnyder: It really does build. Teachers talk to each other, so one really great visit can turn into invites. #mglitchat -9:41 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @KateMessner @dianezahler LOL. Do they *really* want to hear about our h.s./college dating experiences? #mglitchat -9:41 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore So you've got your PowerPoint, your props, your prizes (for volunteers) and your Pilgrim costume. Let's talk the actual visit. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Sep 13th, 2012
coachhays64 @KateMessner Thanks! Two MS visits coming up this spring. Science research presentations seem like cake compared to author visit. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @JoWhittemore Also bookmarks or something else little to give away, if the group isn't too big. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore Be early. Be awake. Be alert. Be friendly. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto RT @dianezahler: @JoWhittemore Also bookmarks or something else little to give away, if the group isnt too big. #mglitchat -9:44 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa Are school visits like book fairs? ie., do you sell books at some point? or just ask them to bring their copies for you to sign? #mglitchat -9:44 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @dianezahler Yes, something you can autograph and give out as keepsakes! #mglitchat -9:44 PM Sep 13th, 2012
LaurelSnyder @dianezahler The only issue is that this can turn into an autographing session that interrupts a return to classes. #mglitchat -9:44 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @JoWhittemore Especially "Be awake." lol #mglitchat -9:44 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @KarenninaPosa Depends on the school. Some will order beforehand, some will sell on-site, some will allow YOU to sell. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KateMessner @KarenninaPosa I don't sell books. Teachers/librarians usually run an advance-order book sale before visit & I sign that day. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Sep 13th, 2012
jjhoutman I always pre-sign enough bookmarks for everyone, then there's no time wasted. Teachers can hand them out later. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa Good point. RT @LaurelSnyder The only issue is this can turn into an autographing session that interrupts a return to classes. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @LaurelSnyder Yes, that happened to me. They brought their bks too. But how not to have it happen? #mglitchat -9:46 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @KarenninaPosa I have order forms; they go out once before visiting and once after. School collects money and issues payment #mglitchat -9:46 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder BUT it acts as marketing. If they didn't buy the book that day, they may buy it another when they see the reminder. #mglitchat -9:46 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @jjhoutman What a great idea! #mglitchat -9:46 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Kellie_Celia Same for us MT @KateMessner: Teachers/librarians usually run an advance-order book sale before visit & I sign that day. #mglitchat -9:46 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @jjhoutman Good idea! #mglitchat -9:46 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @JoWhittemore @michaelascotto @KateMessner It's good to know the different ways to handle book sales #mglitchat -9:47 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @dianezahler @LaurelSnyder Tell them you'll sign enough book plates for everyone & leave them at the end of the day or send later #mglitchat -9:48 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters Why not leave some time at the end specifically for signing? #mglitchat -9:49 PM Sep 13th, 2012
coachhays64 @RosanneParry @LaurelSnyder Do you ever get large groups up & interactive? I like energy with bits of chaos, but not mass chaos. #mglitchat -9:49 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler So -- biggest problems? Best kid questions? #mglitchat -9:49 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore The school will usually tell you how long they'd like each session to be, but 45-60 minutes is a good estimate. #mglitchat -9:50 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore 50%-60% of that should be your presentation, and the rest should be an activity/Q&A period. #mglitchat -9:51 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @dianezahler best question: "how did you know how to write a book just for me?" #mglitchat -9:51 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @ilanawaters I make time for groups of 50-100, but if it's a whole school it can be pandemonium #mglitchat -9:52 PM Sep 13th, 2012
coachhays64 @jjhoutman That advice is golden. Thanks. #mglitchat -9:52 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @KarenninaPosa Coke and sugar cereal is the way to start the day! ;) #mglitchat -9:52 PM Sep 13th, 2012
jodyfeldman Make sure schools (or you) factor in time for the students to get to the gym or the library. That can sometimes take 10-15 min #mglitchat -9:52 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @michaelascotto Oh my. How did you not cry? #mglitchat -9:52 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Deborahkops RT @jjhoutman: I always pre-sign enough bookmarks for everyone, then there's no time wasted. Teachers can hand them out later. #mglitchat -9:52 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @coachhays64 @LaurelSnyder Yes. Controlled chaos is fun. Just give them time to settle after so they don't go back to class wild. #mglitchat -9:52 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore THIS-->RT @jodyfeldman: Make sure schools (or you) factor in time for the students to get to library. That can take 10-15 min #mglitchat -9:53 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @dianezahler who said I didn't? ;) it definitely got me misty #mglitchat -9:53 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @jodyfeldman Also, for everyone to settle down. :) #mglitchat -9:54 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto RT @jodyfeldman: Make sure schools (or you) factor in time for the students to get to library. That can take 10-15 min #mglitchat -9:54 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @dianezahler My favorite question to date--Why aren't you dead yet? #mglitchat -9:54 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @michaelascotto I was once asked how much money I made... #mglitchat -9:54 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf @dianezahler Must have been after a rough night. <grin> #MGLitChat -9:55 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @mararockliff If I have them do character sheets or write jokes, I select a handful and read them to crowd. Much laughter ensues. #mglitchat -9:55 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @RosanneParry And you replied... #mglitchat -9:55 PM Sep 13th, 2012
jjhoutman @dianezahler I get that a lot. I turn it into a joke, which it is. #mglitchat -9:55 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto Reminds me: I like to find out if the school has a 'quiet' signal RT @JoWhittemore: Also, for everyone to settle down. :) #mglitchat -9:56 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore Yikes, guys! We're closing in on the end of the hour! And we didn't have time for Q&A or an activity! ;) #mglitchat -9:56 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @michaelascotto Oooh. Good point! #mglitchat -9:56 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @dianezahler @michaelascotto I get the $ question a lot. I just explain how royalties work w/out saying my income. #mglitchat -9:57 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf @JoWhittemore Do we need to extend this chat to a 2nd week? #MGLitChat -9:57 PM Sep 13th, 2012
ilanawaters @RosanneParry @dianezahler Oh my! I'd say something like "Why do you ask? Don't you want me here?" #mglitchat -9:57 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @RosanneParry Bringing in those math standards! #mglitchat -9:57 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @AniProf Hmmm. It may have to be something we re-visit! #mglitchat -9:58 PM Sep 13th, 2012
michaelascotto @RosanneParry That's a good way to handle it. Nice teachable moment about the profession #mglitchat -9:58 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @RosanneParry Good way to throw in a little math lesson. ;) #mglitchat -9:58 PM Sep 13th, 2012
SoonerBookworm @JoWhittemore as a librarian I find my authors for visits at TLA. I love to book newish authors. #mglitchat -9:59 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @dianezahler I keenly anticipate being dead some day so if you have a ? now would be a great time to ask! #mglitchat -9:59 PM Sep 13th, 2012
Bec_AS Oh, darn! I've missed #mglitchat -9:59 PM Sep 13th, 2012
AniProf Gonna run ... Toodles! #MGLitChat -9:59 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @RosanneParry Hahahaha! #mglitchat -9:59 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa Next week, we're talking about novels in verse. Same time 9 pm ET (or is it EST?). You know, same time we started tonight. :) #mglitchat -10:00 PM Sep 13th, 2012
dianezahler @RosanneParry Love it. #mglitchat -10:00 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KDuBayGillis @kurtisscaletta But you did miss #mglitchat....unless you were lurking. :) -10:00 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore @SoonerBookworm I always love TLA for that connection! Which is where I saw you! #mglitchat -10:00 PM Sep 13th, 2012
KarenninaPosa @RosanneParry That's a great response! #mglitchat -10:00 PM Sep 13th, 2012
spacejock #mglitchat I don't sell books or offer them. They're paying me the equiv of royalties on 300 copies to give a talk. -10:00 PM Sep 13th, 2012
RosanneParry @KarenninaPosa Math teachers adore this! #mglitchat -10:00 PM Sep 13th, 2012
story_queen @ilanawaters @michaelascotto Thank you, Ilana. Hope you are enjoying Trinket! #mglitchat -10:01 PM Sep 13th, 2012
JoWhittemore Thanks to everyone for coming out and chiming in. I hope you walked away with a little more info than you started! #mglitchat -10:01 PM Sep 13th, 2012
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