Black Oasis: Kelowna Children's Festival

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Kelowna Children's Festival

What a fabulous turnout to the Children's Festival this past weekend!

There were so many interesting things to see and do including: bike races, face painting, a variety of foods to taste, dancing, music, games and challenges, and of course, books!

The day was great and I am very glad to have been a part of it. The children's eyes lit up when listening to the stories in the library and their curiosity peaked every few minutes when there was something new to see or hear. I look forward to taking part again next year! Hope to see more people come out and enjoy the diversity we have in this country!!

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Need to Contact Me?

To discuss having me speak at your school, bookstore, library, or event, send an email to: olazapple@mac.com

For schools, I do a presentation that uses any of my books, Why Can't You Look Like Me, Where Do I Belong, or What Is A Part Of Me, as a point of departure for discussing differences in people, family situations and about how believing in the negative words and behaviours towards people who are different, can hurt oneself and others. The positive message of being different is acceptable is encouraged and discussed with the children throughout the presentation. Self confidence is key throughout the discussion. There is generally a question and answer period with the children, as they are always quite inquisitive about the books. The presentation can last 30-45 minutes, depending on age, and can be tailored to the needs of a given grade level or curriculum.

For Adoption or Foster Care support groups, I do a presentation by first discussing my own life experiences as a transracially adopted person. I continue on with the topic of finding the strength within to make a difference in the lives of children by developing books that will encourage children to believe in what is within them, rather than what is said about, or to them. The messages that are offered throughout the presentation are key in the development of strong, healthy, self confident children, children that will start their healing process as they grow, rather than when they are grown. Things are wrapped up with a question and answer period whereby parents, educators, support workers and anyone who attends a presentation, will walk away feeling empowered and inspired to continue helping the children and families in their lives.

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Contact me to discuss: olazapple@mac.com