The Creative Problem Solvers Series: Poet Tree of Light

This hands-on workshop challenges 3rd–5th graders to collaborate, design and build Poet Trees of encouragement for families in need. Students also engage in perspective taking and empathy building through guided writing prompts. The program provides winter essentials (gloves, socks, hats, hand warmers, and foot warmers) to families in need.

What we will do:

• Clarify the goal: create poetic, encouraging messages for families in need this winter.

• Ideate creative approaches to decorate the Poet Tree and convey warmth and hope.

• Develop simple plans and implement them (writing prompts, tree design, display layout).

• Test, reflect, and iterate on messages and presentation.

• Practice empathy by stepping into others’ perspectives and sharing supportive ideas.

• Collaborate with rotating roles (Facilitator, Writer, Editor/Scribe, Artist/Designer, Presenter).

Tools we will use:

• Materials for Poet Trees (variety of art supplies, string, tags)

• Writing prompts for empathy and encouragement

• Supplies for winter care packages (gloves, socks, hats, hand warmers, foot warmers)

• Visible timer for rounds

• Reflection prompts (sticky notes or short worksheet)

Why it helps:

• Builds a foundation of empathy, kindness, and community service

• Encourages perspective-taking and compassionate communication

• Provides a tangible, seasonal way to apply Creative Problem Solving: clarify, ideate, develop, implement, reflect

Our ‘fokus’: Empathy and giving

• Guided prompts to place students in others’ shoes and understand needs

• Activities to craft meaningful messages and design a thoughtful display

• Connection between words of light and real-world impact through giving

Take-home support:

• Optional prompts to reinforce Clarify, Ideate, Develop, Implement, Reflect

• Simple reflection note to carry forward: how to show up for others in everyday life

The Creative Problem Solvers series allows 3rd-5th graders the opportunity to become creative problem solvers! Participants will use the creative arts to solve problems while developing Critical Thinking, Innovation,Collaboration, Planning, Reflection & Presentation skills.

This series is funded and supported by: Aitina Fareed-Cooke/The Creative Arts Strategist, Get Fokus’d Productions, Youth Time Foundation DAF, & Arts Services Inc.