International Dot Day

International Dot Day is inspired by the story ‘The Dot’. Where does each achievement begin? The correct answer is: from the point you set at the very beginning of the path, and moving from it, you were able to achieve success! It is celebrated annually on September 15th.

History

It was on September 15, 2003 that the world saw a book for children by Peter Reynolds called The Dot. The story is about a girl, Vashti, who is studying at school and thinks she can’t draw. However, her teacher completely disagrees with her position. He advised her to put only one dot on a page and see what happens next. Vashti did so, and when she came to school the next day, she saw her page with a dot on the wall. She was so pleased that she continued to draw and created entire compositions based on different points.

The story of Vashti proved to many readers that the main thing is to put down a dot (that is, to start an activity) and everything will definitely work out! Storytelling plays an important role in education. It led to the introduction of a method of encouraging the creative initiatives of schoolchildren, which makes it possible to reveal their talents. This method was described in a book by Iowa teacher Terry Shay and presented on September 15, 2009. Since then, this date has been celebrated annually as International Dot Day.

How to take part

There are several ways to celebrate International Dot Day.

1. Read Peter Reynolds’ story about Vashti and delve into the interesting plot of this book.
2. Become a volunteer at orphanages and boarding schools. Bring the children items that encourage creativity (pencils, paints, albums, brushes). You can organize competitions or events dedicated to creativity in order to identify talented children.
3. Draw a book or write a poem. Try something new!

When is International Dot Day celebrated in 2023?

International Dot Day is observed on September 15 each year.

Observations