Scholastic, the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books will present an exclusive video featuring an inspiring, personal conversation with Taylor Swift about how reading and writing can open a world of possibilities for children.
Taylor will also share with young viewers the books that have most influenced her and a never before seen clip from behind the scenes at one of her recent music videos.
As part of Scholastic’s new reading initiative, “Open a World of Possible,” the 30-minute exclusive video will air on Scholastic.com beginning on October 29, 2014, at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT. Registration to watch on 10/29 is open now here.
In a nod to her multi-week No. 1 international smash hit single, “Shake It Off,” Taylor will discuss how music helps her shake off the tough moments in life. Following the video, students can enter Scholastic’s “This is How I Shake it Off” writing contest for the chance to win tickets and a meet-and-greet for two at an upcoming Taylor Swift concert, along with accompanying flights and accommodations. Additional prizes for runners up include a signed guitar and signed copies of Taylor’s new “1989” CD. Students in grades 3-8 attending a U.S. school can enter the contest by submitting a one-page creative essay or poem about how they shake off mean comments and hard times. More details, Official Rules and the contest entry form can be found at www.scholastic.com/taylorswift. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Enter by December 11, 2014. Void where prohibited.
October is National Bullying Prevention Month, a great time to approach the subject of bullying with kids. In support of this observance and the video with Taylor, Scholastic has curated a collection of resources that address bullying, building resilience and fostering a love of reading in kids:
• For Teachers: Articles and tips about how to address bullying in classrooms, available here, as well as writing activities to get students in a creative spirit, available here.
• For Parents: A guide to the sensitive issue of bullying, including lists of anti-bullying books for every age and expert advice available here.
Through the ongoing Open a World of Possible initiative, Scholastic has begun a conversation for teachers, parents and children to share ideas and advice about simple ways to incorporate independent reading into busy classroom days and family time. Scholastic invites people to continue joining the conversation and connecting with peers on social media channels using the hashtag #SharePossible.
