ASCD and Wonder Media have joined forces to introduce a series of animations based on the renowned 16 Habits of Mind, developed by Dr. Art Costa and Bena Kallick of the Global Institute for Habits of Mind. This groundbreaking collaboration aims to provide students in kindergarten through 2nd grade with essential creative and critical thinking skills for success in both school and life.
The Habits of Mind Animations serve as a unique tool for educators, offering a revolutionary approach to teaching students how to persist, manage their impulsivity, listen with understanding and empathy, strive for accuracy, and develop 12 other crucial life skills. By aligning with college-and career-ready standards, these animations provide a valuable resource for helping students navigate difficult situations they may encounter.
Research has shown that young children form strong emotional connections with animated characters, making them effective role models for demonstrating positive behaviors and breaking down barriers to understanding complex concepts. By leveraging the power of animation, educators can engage students in a fun and entertaining way, enhancing their learning experience.
Deb Delisle, CEO and executive director of ASCD, emphasizes the importance of engaging young minds through mediums that spark curiosity and interest. She believes that Habits of Mind Animations play a vital role in teaching children valuable techniques for overcoming challenges in school and beyond. By incorporating these animations into the curriculum, educators can equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in various situations.
The partnership between ASCD and Wonder Media underscores the Institute for Habits of Mind’s commitment to empowering students to reach their full potential both academically and as global citizens. By leveraging the power of animation, these organizations are able to bring the 16 Habits of Mind to life in a way that resonates with young learners and inspires them to adopt positive behaviors.
Terry Thoren, CEO of Wonder Media and former CEO of Klasky Csupo, recognizes the impact that animated characters can have on shaping children’s behavior. By creating engaging characters that model and reinforce the 16 Habits of Mind, Wonder Media aims to provide students with the problem-solving and life-related skills necessary for success in society. Through these animations, children can learn and practice essential dispositions that will serve them well in various aspects of their lives.
Bena Kallick, co-director of the Institute for Habits of Mind, expresses her enthusiasm for the collaboration with Wonder Media and the opportunity to bring the 16 Habits of Mind to a wider audience through animation. Together with Art Costa, co-director of the Institute for Habits of Mind, she has been dedicated to finding innovative ways for children to learn and internalize these essential skills. The partnership with Wonder Media represents a significant step forward in achieving this goal.
Art Costa highlights the universal appeal of animation and its ability to transcend borders, reaching children around the world with the message of the 16 Habits of Mind. By creating lifelike animated characters that engage and inspire young learners, the Institute for Habits of Mind aims to make learning and practicing these habits a fun and enjoyable experience for children of all ages.
The Institute for Habits of Mind, founded by Bena Kallick and Art Costa, has been at the forefront of promoting critical and creative thinking skills in schools and workplaces. Through their research and publications, they have advocated for the integration of the Habits of Mind into educational curricula to foster a more thoughtful society. The Institute’s mission is to transform learning environments into communities where these essential dispositions are not just taught but also practiced and ingrained in the culture.
Wonder Media, led by Terry Thoren, Rudy Verbeeck, and Ryan Cannon, has been instrumental in developing animated content that positively impacts students’ growth and development. Through their education initiative, WonderGrove, they have produced a wide range of instructional animations designed to inspire students in various key areas of growth. By using engaging characters and immersive stories, Wonder Media aims to support children in realizing their full potential and succeeding in different aspects of their lives.
In conclusion, the collaboration between ASCD, Wonder Media, and the Institute for Habits of Mind represents a significant milestone in promoting the 16 Habits of Mind through innovative and engaging animation. By leveraging the power of animated characters, educators can effectively teach students essential life skills and critical thinking habits that will serve them well in school and beyond. This partnership underscores the importance of providing young learners with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-changing world.