The LitWits Video Workshop on STUART LITTLE

During our "field trip" through this book's narrative arc, we'll pause to take part in Stuart Little's experiences. And we'll be learning a lot of BIG lessons as we go, just like him!

Your purchase gives you permanent, anytime access to this video workshop. It includes video instruction by Becky and Jenny, printables, and a list of inexpensive supplies, plus CCSS alignment for grades 3-6.

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Fun "field trips" through classic children's literature - experiential learning from LitWits Workshops

"My kids both said unequivocally: “I want to do that again.” I was worried that it might be a little too schooly for my PTSD (post-traumatic school disorder) kids—sitting still, worksheets—but you guys clearly made it fun and engaging. Thank you for that."

"Becky and Jenny . . . make the exploration of each book look like an entertaining adventure that students will be eager to join." —Read Cathy Duffy's full review!

Stuart "caught in a blind" - fun activity for teaching STUART LITTLE - LitWits Workshops

What we'll do

Once we've introduced the author and shared the concept of the narrative arc, your kids will:

build Stuart's tiny bed (suspending disbelief like his dad)
get him caught in a roller blind (and learn what he learned about the world)
enjoy his mom's tapioca and later the storekeeper's soda (both unique flavors from the past
introduce ourselves melodiously like Margalo
swipe—well, make—a balsam pillow for Stuart that he can take on the road (but it also fits his bed)
symbolize his journey and quest with a mappy art piece

and all while bringing out the great lessons in the story actions that inspired these activities! Whew!

This workshop video (60m) includes pauses for activities, so it can easily provide at least three hours of fun, hands-on learning.

What your child will get

Our audiovisual introduction to the author
An overview of the concept of the narrative arc
A walk-through of the story’s plot, point by point, pausing every so often to “do what the characters (or author) did,” including:
Creative writing
Instructions and printables for at least two projects or activities that get kids into the story
A fun idea for a straight-from-the-story snack (what we call “BookBites”), often with story packaging
Story activity mementos layered with meaning
Lifelong benefits: memories of a great time exploring a great book, and the inspiration to read many more; an influential model of someone who learned how to cope and overcome; and valuable academic lessons.

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All the printables your child needs for this workshop are included,

Online video course on STUART LITTLE by E.B. White - LitWits Workshops

FAQ

What does my child need to do to prepare?

Just read (or listen to) the story before the workshop. We strongly recommend reading purely for enjoyment, with no assignments or learning goals in mind. We'll be sharing the important stuff during the workshop!

Are abridged versions okay?

Sure! Any abridged version is better than watching the movie. Dramatized or recorded books are fine too--even better, if your child struggles to read. The point is to get the story in his or her head, as effortlessly as possible. The movie version is never the same, no matter how good (and most aren't) or how closely it sticks to the written version (and most don't). We want kids to absorb words that help them imagine, instead of going straight to someone else's imaginings.

What do I need to do?

Just print the papers and collect the supplies listed in your Prep Packet--we've made them easy to find, and inexpensive. It's perfectly okay to substitute anything that works better for your child's needs or your time and budget. Our instructions include pictures and tips to make the prep and easy and fun.

For extra fun, pack it up as a LitWits Kit! Put the supplies in a box with our welcome note for your child. Kids love the "slow reveal" of opening their kits with us, and taking out each item as needed, one at a time. That's it! We'll take it from there.

Once the workshop starts, you may want to be nearby in case your child needs assistance--that's up to you. (We've tried to make that unnecessary, with simplicity and careful instructions, but you know your child best.) There are also some "pause and think" moments in most workshops, where you might like to engage your child in discussion.

What if my child can't write?

Our writing handout is creative writing, where the imagination matters most. Have your child dictate his or her writing to you; after you've written it down, read it aloud with inflection and enthusiasm, so s/he can hear that their words sound "just like a real writer!"

Can my child participate in your live Zoom workshop, where you send the supplies?

Of course, if there's room--we'd love to meet him or her in person (two-dimensionally, anyway)! We limit our two sessions to 25 kids each, and the sessions usually sell out fast. Check out our live Zoom schedule here.

Can I get a refund if it doesn't work out?

Yes of course! Just email beckyandjenny@LitWits.com and let us know what could have been better, so we can improve. This is our bread-and-butter, so your feedback literally helps FEED us! :)

Any other questions? Just ask!
Ready to sign up?

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Stuart Little is NOT a small human boy - he's a MOUSE!

About this story

Stuart Little is no ordinary mouse—and he IS a mouse, not a tiny human boy. Born to a family of humans (just go with it!), he lives in New York City with his parents, his older brother George, and Snowbell the cat. He arrives well-dressed and well-spoken, and proves quite helpful immediately.

Though he's shy and thoughtful, he's also a true lover of adventure. His greatest adventure comes when his best friend, a beautiful little bird named Margalo, disappears from her nest. Determined to track her down, Stuart ventures away from home for the very first time in his life. He finds adventure aplenty. But will he find his friend?

Read reviews/buy the book here. We make a small commission on anything you buy via our Amazon affiliate links.

Following your dreams and learning as you go, like Stuart Little as he sets off after Margalo, per the telephone lineman's advice to "head north" - LitWits Workshops

What's most important

Stuart Little is packed with E.B. White's dry wit and his simple yet gorgeous prose, modeling all kinds of craft points. But it’s also densely packed with Stuart's life experiences that give him "the love of life and the fear of dogs." This story and our workshop activities revolve around following your heart while filling your mind—of going from little to big.

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