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The single most important thing is to be sure the students are prepared. Have them read the books, or read the books to them, and make them familiar with our music. Art activities relating to the books, especially Africa Calling, will also increase the excitement of both students and teachers! The more teachers prepare their classes, the more the kids will get out of our visit! Preparing students well also gives you the best return on your investment!
Other good ideas:
A. It's always nice to introduce us enthusiastically (and knowledgeably)!
B. Make sure you have provided the equipment requested (very little with us - an easel with big sheets of paper and markers, and some glasses of water, and a table for our props).
C. Wait until all classes are seated prior to starting the introduction.
2) How far in advance should we arrange the appearance?
In general, the sooner the better. Some authors fill up a year or more in advance, especially on or around March 2nd - our busiest day of the year! Three of the past four years we were booked a year in advance for this date. However, usually we have more flexiblilty. More lead time is always a good idea, but it never hurts to ask if you need us sooner!
3) Will you sign books?
Yes! Happily! Willingly! Gleefully!
Here's an idea that some folks do: Create a simple bookmark with our signature so all students can have an "autograph."
4) What if we find one of the author's books objectionable?
For us, this is easy: You won't find our books objectionable! Check 'em out on the site if you want to. Regarding other authors though, those who write more sensitive material, it may be smart to read the author's books yourself before inviting them. Discuss any problem before making plans for a visit! Authors are sensitive to censorship of their books, and as educators, you probably are, too.
5) Is any follow-up required?
While not required, acknowledgments that our visit was well received are always nice. Thank you notes from students are appreciated, but also not required. We can always use positive comments from teachers, librarians, and/or administrators that can serve as a reference for future gigs.
6) What else?
If possible, lunch (or whatever repast is appropriate to our visit) is a really lovely and warmly received gesture. Lots of schools plan a meet-n-greet lunch between us and teachers, and sometimes even select
students - we love this! If you can't provide meals, that's cool, too - please do just let us know so that we can arrange to take care of it ourselves. If our visit is two or more days, it's smart to speak with us about accomodations well in advance. Generally, we like bed & breakfasts, but we're very easygoing, really!
Also, if you can, please prepare some form of contract including dates, fees, equipment, grade levels and number of presentations, number of students expected at presentations, and any other details you wish. If you need us to supply this, we can, but we figure you know best what you expect out of us. Try not to vary from this contract without notifying us. It's really tough to appear in front of 200 kids from mixed grade levels when we're told to expect 25 sixth graders.
Send us by fax or email a detailed schedule before we visit!
Please have our payment the day of our appearance unless we've made other arrangements in advance.
Lastly, let everyone know! Parents, students, and the community (including the local press if appropriate)! Send reminders about book purchases and times of presentations the day before the actual visit.
