Join in on the fun with Crayola Creativity Week, January 27 - February 2! This free program for schools, libraries, and homes provides access to 7 days of downloadable resources, author and celebrity activity videos to use at home and in the classroom, giveaways, and more! Check back each day for a new book and creative activities.
Day 1: January 27th - Life Lessons
Author, Matthew McConaughey & Illustrator, Renee Kurilla share his best-selling book, Just Because.
In his debut picture book, Just Because, Matthew McConaughey draws on powerful life lessons to show that it’s possible to experience multiple emotions simultaneously. Through vibrant illustrations and thoughtful storytelling, McConaughey encourages readers to embrace their full potential, even when contradictions and uncertainties surround them. This heartwarming story serves as a reminder that our feelings are complex and that it’s okay to feel more than one thing at a time.
Day 2: January 28th - Change & Collaboration
Actor and Author, Henry Winkler, Author Lin Oliver & Illustrator, Dan Santat share their book, Detective Duck: The Case of the Missing Tadpole.
In the second book of Henry Winkler’s and Lin Oliver’s The Detective Duck series, The Case of the Missing Tadpole, Willow Feathers McBeaver leads a determined group of pond residents on a quest to find Tad, the missing tadpole. As the case unfolds, Willow and her team quickly realize that this mystery is far more complicated than they thought. To crack the case, they must think outside the box and even seek help from humans. Along the way, readers discover that solving tough problems often requires creativity, teamwork, and bringing together all kinds of different perspectives.
Use the worksheet below to Respond, Connect, and/or Create. Download the PDF here.
Day 3: January 29th - Abstract Thinking
Children’s Author-Illustrator & Artist, Mo Willems shares his book, Opposites Abstract.
In his book, Opposites Abstract, Mo Willems invites readers to fire up their imaginations through thought-provoking questions paired with bold, abstract art. These questions encourage students to think creatively, engage with art on a deeper level, and explore new perspectives.
With vibrant and emotive illustrations, Willems uses the elements of art to help children understand and appreciate abstract concepts in an accessible and exciting way. This interactive experience promises to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of creative thinkers!
Day 4: January 30th - Confidence Soars
Author and Actor Phillipa Soo, Author, Maris Pasquale Doran & Illustrator, Qin Leng share their book, Piper Chen Sings.
First-time picture book authors and sisters-in-law, Phillipa Soo and Maris Pasquale Doran, along with the talented illustrator Qin Leng, have teamed up to create a heartwarming story that encourages young readers to face their fears with courage and confidence.
In Piper Chen Sings Her Song, Piper loves to sing more than anything, but when it’s time for her solo at the school concert, doubts begin to creep in. Her confidence wavers, and she wonders if she's really ready. But her grandmother—who shares her love of music—gently reminds her that the key to overcoming fear is not just in practice, but in trusting her own voice and the love and support of those who believe in her. This sweet story celebrates the power of family, self-belief, and the courage to sing out loud, no matter the fear.
Day 5: January 31st - Flows Like Water
Author and U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón, Illustrator, Peter Sis & NASA Scientists share their book, In Praise of Mystery.
In Praise of Mystery celebrates our endless curiosity and the desire to explore the unknown. Written by U.S. poet laureate Ada Limón, the poem was created for NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft, which launched to explore Jupiter’s moon Europa. This version of the poem has been transformed into a picture book, beautifully illustrated by Peter Sís.
The book honors both the Earth and NASA’s mission to Europa, which aims to discover whether conditions on the icy moon could support life. Limón’s words inspire us to reflect on the wonder of discovery, while Sís’s illustrations bring the mystery of space to life. Scientists Dr. David Grinspoon and Dr. Cynthia Phillips share insights into Europa’s surface, which may hold the key to understanding life beyond our planet. In Praise of Mystery invites readers to explore both the vast universe and the mysteries within ourselves.
Use the worksheet below to Respond, Connect, and/or Create. Download the PDF here.
Day 6: February 1st - Bee-lieve in Your Future
Author and 19-Year-Old Entrepreneur, Mikaila Ulmer shares her book, Bee Fearless: Dream Like a Kid.
In her book Bee Fearless, Mikaila Ulmer blends memoir with business advice to inspire young readers. With her unique approach to mindful entrepreneurship, Mikaila shares her journey of building Me & the Bees Lemonade, a multi-million dollar company, while also working to protect bees through her nonprofit. She began her entrepreneurial journey at just four years old, selling honey-sweetened lemonade in front of her house. Through her story, Mikaila encourages kids to believe in themselves and their dreams, showing them that with imagination and determination, they too can be fearless and succeed in their ventures. Now, she’s also teaching kids valuable lessons about financial literacy and entrepreneurship, making her a true example of ‘Imagination in Action!’
Use the worksheet below to Respond, Connect, and/or Create. Download the PDF here.
Day 7: February 2nd - Conquer Fears
Author and Actor, Max Greenfield & Illustrator, James Serafino share their book, Good Night Thoughts.
Use the worksheet below to Respond, Connect, and/or Create. Download the PDF here.
Good Night Thoughts
In Praise of Mystery
Just Because
Piper Chen Sings
Piper Chen Sings
Bee Fearless
Opposites Abstract
