I write picture books. That means that my readers are very short. I remember what it was like to be a kid, but it’s not as easy to remember what it feels like to be little in a world of big people. What do kids notice at that height? And more importantly, what am I missing? It was time for a change of perspective.
On my way to the New York Public Library, I stopped by Bryant Park to find out what a walk through the park would look like through the eyes of my readers. I held the camera at about 33” from the ground, and here’s what I saw…
The first thing I notice is legs. And butts. And the ground is much closer. Then I notice a little bird preening under a cafe table. Then a white wall—and I had to see what was on the other side of it. But first I had to chase a pigeon—I just HAD to.
I took a peek over the wall, and I saw one little fellow ice skating with a penguin. Then I’m drawn to the lights and sounds of the carousel with it’s toads, rabbits and horses flying through the air, and notice one unusual rider, as well.
A vine running up the side of a building is tempting to climb. I watch friendly jugglers and dream about joining the circus. And at the end of the day, I meet a friend and we play. Which is what our readers love to do most of all.
I hope this helps you come up with even more ideas this month. Our little ones are counting on you!
Julie Gribble creates and produces works for children and the children’s literature community in both the United States and Great Britain. She founded KidLit TV to help connect children’s book creators to their readers. She’s been nominated for two Emmy Awards and is a multi award-winning writer, screenwriter, filmmaker, and producer. Her charming picture book, Bubblegum Princess, is based on a true story about Kate Middleton and was released on the day Prince George was born.
Julie sits on the Children’s Committee of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts: BAFTA-NY. Find her on Facebook and Twitter @JulieGribbleNYC.
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Julie is giving away a Kidlit TV prize pack of a book bag, pencils, stickers, magnets, temporary tattoos, earbuds, pins, and a party hat just like the KidLit TV kitty’s!
Leave a comment below to enter. One comment per person, please.
This prize will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for this prize if:
- You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
- You have commented ONCE ONLY on today’s post.
- You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge. (You will have to sign the PiBoIdMo Pledge at the end of the event.)
Good luck, everyone!
460 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 14, 2015 at 8:38 am
Beth Gallagher
What a wonderful “reader’s eye view” of the world! You’ve inspired me to do this on my trek today. Thank you for the inspiration and for all you do for kids’ lit writers and readers! 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 9:40 am
nymediaworks
Wonderful to hear! So happy you’re inspired — PiBoIdMo gives us the chance to help each other come up lots of ideas!
November 14, 2015 at 8:50 am
Tucker
SO important to remember to walk in the kids’ shoes and visit their world
November 14, 2015 at 9:50 am
Julie Gribble
Small shoes in a big world. Hope this helped!
November 14, 2015 at 8:57 am
kathalsey
Julie, yes, we need to be in that world, the kid’s POV before weever think of anyone else’s POV. What a great exercise and so fitting for the Queen of Kid Lit TV! I’d love to win the cool swag, too.
November 14, 2015 at 7:51 pm
Julie Gribble
You’re right, it a great place to start. Good luck in the giveaway!
November 14, 2015 at 8:59 am
ManjuBeth
Hi, Julie. I enjoyed walking through the park from the reader’s POV. Fun idea!
November 14, 2015 at 7:52 pm
Julie Gribble
It was super fun to do. Just running after pigeons was a hoot…it’s been awhile since I’ve done that.
November 14, 2015 at 9:00 am
melissamiles1
What a great idea! I have three year old twin nieces and it would be cool to imagine life at their vantage point! 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 7:56 pm
Julie Gribble
Twin nieces?! You lucky aunt! You can try walking about with your cell phone camera, too.
November 14, 2015 at 9:00 am
katmaz2012
That is why kids climb up every chance they get. They want to see more! Thanks so much for the insight.
November 14, 2015 at 7:57 pm
Julie Gribble
You’re welcome. I was a climber, too. Most days you could find me up a tree!
November 14, 2015 at 9:01 am
pathaap
Good reminder to look at things from children’s perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 7:57 pm
Julie Gribble
Thank you! I hope you get a chance to try it!
November 14, 2015 at 9:02 am
Steph Beth Nickel's Blog
What a great prize! And what a great video! As a visual learner, this is incredibly helpful.
November 14, 2015 at 7:59 pm
Julie Gribble
I’m a visual learner, too, so I know you’ll enjoy trying it out. Good luck in the giveaway!
November 14, 2015 at 9:06 am
skiffer
I’ve done the exact same thing (well, almost) in the exact same place. Bryant Park at Christmas is Magical! But, I do see so may kids being lifted up by their parents to see the gifts in the shops, the ice cream in the Ice ‘Wich coolers, and the ice skaters on the rink. Sitting and watching from one of the park tables is also a good perspective of what kids are looking at. They do look up – at the lights in the trees – the squirrels – the street lamps. Thanks for the reminder of “how” to look at the world from a 33″ perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 8:01 pm
Julie Gribble
Oh cool! And Bryant park is right next to the NYPL — how perfect, right?
November 14, 2015 at 9:07 am
ritaborg
I grew up in New York City. With this film I was transferred to when I was just a kid. Now I know why I love NYC so much- there were always new things to dicover and dream about. Thanks Julie and thanks for KIDLIT
TV.
November 14, 2015 at 8:04 pm
Julie Gribble
The city is changing so much; new buildings go up almost weekly it seems. Thank you for your support — Ill pass along your appreciation to the KidLit TV team, they’ll love to hear it.
November 14, 2015 at 9:09 am
Jane Heitman Healy
Julie makes a good point here, and I got a pb idea from the video! Thanks!
November 14, 2015 at 8:05 pm
Julie Gribble
Super! Now that’s great to hear!
November 14, 2015 at 9:12 am
Darlene
Thank you for the great visual ideas. Wonderful prize package.
November 14, 2015 at 8:05 pm
Julie Gribble
You’re welcome, Darlene. Good luck in the giveaway!
November 14, 2015 at 9:15 am
BHandiboe
Good reminder to walk in the readers shoes!
November 14, 2015 at 8:12 pm
Julie Gribble
Indeed! Know your audience.
November 14, 2015 at 9:15 am
Shelly Hawley-Yan
Perfect! Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 9:22 am
Shirley Fadden
Fun! Thanks!
November 14, 2015 at 9:23 am
Linda Baie
Fun to see what that small child sees. What “is” over that wall? Thanks for helping us remember to “look” at things in different ways.
November 14, 2015 at 8:14 pm
Julie Gribble
You’re welcome. I’m hoping you can give it a try!
November 14, 2015 at 9:24 am
gweddle
Great lesson on POV!
November 14, 2015 at 9:24 am
Susie Hou
I love your insight. Getting down to the height of kids who read picture books is brilliant! Thank you. 😋
November 14, 2015 at 8:18 pm
Julie Gribble
Thank you for the sweet comment! Let me know if you get a chance to walk about with a camera — a cell phone would work perfectly well !
November 14, 2015 at 9:27 am
Ashley Bohmer
Seeing the world through the eyes of a child both literally and figuratively is one of best parts of our job as picture book writers. 😃
November 14, 2015 at 8:19 pm
Julie Gribble
I couldn’t agree more! We do know how to have fun 😉
November 14, 2015 at 9:31 am
Pascale M.
Brilliant, Julie. Thanks!
November 14, 2015 at 9:32 am
seekerjules
Cool Park, awesome video-inspiring. Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 8:21 pm
Julie Gribble
Hey, Jules — Bryant park is right next to the NYPL main branch. Both are faves of mine! 😉
November 14, 2015 at 9:33 am
Lynne Marie
I truly appreciate all you do for KidLit, Julie!!
November 14, 2015 at 8:22 pm
Julie Gribble
Thank you, Lynne. I’ll pass that along to the team, too. We all work really hard.
November 14, 2015 at 9:33 am
Daryl Gottier
Off to look at the world through younger, and lower, eyes. Thanks!
November 14, 2015 at 8:24 pm
Julie Gribble
Hey, Daryl! Hooray, let me know how it goes.
November 14, 2015 at 9:35 am
elainekielykearns
Loved the little reader’s eye view perspective, Julie! Thanks for reminding us to get down to a kid’s level!
November 14, 2015 at 8:25 pm
Julie Gribble
Hey Elaine! So happy you enjoyed it! It was a fun and enlightening exercise.
November 14, 2015 at 9:39 am
Ann Kelley
I can imagine what it is like. I can try to remember what it was like. By actually doing it, my senses flood and I become like the reader. The video was excellent exercise in POV. Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 8:26 pm
Julie Gribble
So glad you found it helpful This is really good to hear!
November 14, 2015 at 9:39 am
Rosie Taylor
I hope I remember to ask “How tall is my reader?” always!!!! Thank you.
November 14, 2015 at 9:41 am
Lane Arnold (@lanearnold)
Thank you for these words: “What do kids notice at that height? And more importantly, what am I missing?” They remind me to shift my perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 8:30 pm
Julie Gribble
And when was the last time you got to chase a pigeon and not feel embarrassed?
November 14, 2015 at 9:41 am
Dorothy Massey
Great perspective, great prize too.
November 14, 2015 at 8:33 pm
Julie Gribble
Good luck in the drawing!
November 14, 2015 at 9:44 am
MaryLee Flannigan
Thank you for sharing 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 9:46 am
Rebecca Sheraton
Yes we all need to bring out our inner child and see the world through their eyes
November 14, 2015 at 9:49 am
writerjodimoore
I suddenly feel very fortunate to be short. 😉 Seriously, great post on perspective and truly seeing the world as a child. Thanks and hugs!
November 14, 2015 at 8:35 pm
Julie Gribble
Cute! You have a distinct advantage 😉
November 14, 2015 at 9:53 am
Lynn A. Davidson
Julie, I know this is sort of silly, but I teared up watching your video. I often think about the perspective of children from their vantage point of “short” … which is why I try to get on my grandson’s level when interacting with him. Thank you for the reminder. And I just got an idea for day 14 of our challenge!
November 14, 2015 at 8:45 pm
Julie Gribble
Oh Lynn, thank you so much for telling me. It’s not silly at all. So good to hear that it inspired you! That is just what I was hoping to do.
November 14, 2015 at 9:53 am
Melissa
Thanks Julie!
November 14, 2015 at 9:55 am
Nadine Gamble
Great perspective, esp the butts! Time for squats!
November 14, 2015 at 8:45 pm
Julie Gribble
Ha – that made me laugh!
November 14, 2015 at 10:00 am
Laura K Zimmermann
Thank you for showing us the world from our readers’ perspective!
November 14, 2015 at 10:00 am
Katie Engen
Love the ‘showing’ (not just telling) aspect of your post – another good reminder to go with the perspective message. Thanks!
November 14, 2015 at 8:47 pm
Julie Gribble
I wanted to bring you all along with me. Good to hear it could be helpful!
November 14, 2015 at 10:00 am
Bruna De Luca
Brilliant, thanks!
November 14, 2015 at 10:02 am
Rebecca G. Aguilar
Wow! What would you miss if not from the vantage point of 33 inches? Thank you for the post, Julie!
November 14, 2015 at 8:48 pm
Julie Gribble
You’re welcome, Rebecca!
November 14, 2015 at 10:03 am
Teresa Robeson
At my height, I still mainly see legs and butts. 😀 Fun walk through Central Park with Julie!
November 14, 2015 at 8:49 pm
Julie Gribble
Hey Teresa! Very funny! Then you are a step ahead of us! 😉
November 14, 2015 at 9:25 pm
Teresa Robeson
Especially since I’ve also never matured beyond 8 years old. 😆
November 14, 2015 at 10:03 am
Kathryn Kass
I love this post. The world of a kid is totally different from ours!
November 14, 2015 at 8:52 pm
Julie Gribble
Thank you so much! It is like another world, so true!
November 14, 2015 at 10:04 am
rgstones
What a great idea! I love the video. 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 8:53 pm
Julie Gribble
Thank you so much!
November 14, 2015 at 10:10 am
Mary Warth
Thanks Julie! During my travels today I’ll be changing my perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 8:54 pm
Julie Gribble
Neato! Let me know what you think and how it felt.
November 14, 2015 at 10:14 am
Rebecca Colby
As writers, it’s really important to put ourselves in the shoes (and at the height) of our audience. Fun video!
November 14, 2015 at 8:54 pm
Julie Gribble
It was fun to make, too. So glad you found it helpful.
November 14, 2015 at 10:15 am
Brianna Zamborsky
I LOVE this post. Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 8:55 pm
Julie Gribble
Thank you, Brianna!
November 14, 2015 at 10:16 am
DaNeil
Today I’ll change my perspective and see what I can see. 🙂 Thank you.
November 14, 2015 at 8:56 pm
Julie Gribble
It’s all about observation, right? You’ll be amazed at what you see when you make even just a slight adjustment in your perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 10:17 am
deborahholtwilliams
Thanks for this post–it inspired a story idea!
November 14, 2015 at 8:57 pm
Julie Gribble
Hooray! Now THAT made my day!
November 14, 2015 at 10:18 am
Rebecca E. Guzinski
Your video was so much fun to watch! As writers, we are adults but we do need to write through our child-like eyes in order for it to work.
November 14, 2015 at 9:01 pm
Julie Gribble
So glad you enjoyed it, Rebecca! Child-like eyes–that’s key, right?
November 14, 2015 at 10:21 am
Kim piddington
Peering under tables now…
November 14, 2015 at 9:09 pm
Julie Gribble
Yes — under the table! A table can be a fort to be defended from baby-brother invasions.
November 14, 2015 at 10:21 am
David McMullin
Thanks for the perspective, Julie.
November 14, 2015 at 10:25 am
cherylsec
This was such a fun post to read, and a good reminder to see the world as our readers do. Thanks so much for sharing, Julie!
November 14, 2015 at 9:12 pm
Julie Gribble
You’re welcome, Cheryl.
November 14, 2015 at 10:26 am
Carole Calladine
Great post. I’m taking my camera for a walk.
November 14, 2015 at 9:10 pm
Julie Gribble
Super! That’s good to hear. Have fun!
November 14, 2015 at 10:27 am
Michele Blood
Spot on, Julie!
November 14, 2015 at 9:11 pm
Julie Gribble
Hey Michele! So glad you liked it!
November 14, 2015 at 10:28 am
Kim Erickson
So inspiring!
November 14, 2015 at 10:30 am
Anna L. Russell
I’m on my way to visit three ggkids with the intention of being “at their level.” Thanks for reinforcing the concept.
November 14, 2015 at 9:12 pm
Julie Gribble
Excellent! Let me know how it goes.
November 14, 2015 at 10:31 am
Val McCammon
Excellent reminder of what a kid sees and experiences every day. Thanks, Julie.
November 14, 2015 at 10:33 am
dbyatt
I bet they also get a lot of licks to the face from friendly dogs at that level!
November 14, 2015 at 10:33 am
Vicky Wirkkala
What a unique way to gain perspective!!! Thank you for thi!
November 14, 2015 at 10:34 am
Laurie Daley
This is a great reminder about remembering the physical aspects of being a kid (and what I’ve forgotten that means.)
November 14, 2015 at 10:39 am
Kara
What a great idea. I’ve never thought of how tall our readers are. It definitely makes you think of what they see.
November 14, 2015 at 10:42 am
Jeanine Potter
Brilliant!
November 14, 2015 at 10:43 am
Kathy Doherty
Thanks! I also remember what it was like to be a kid.
November 14, 2015 at 10:52 am
Lori Dubbin
Julie, your video and POV reminder – brilliant! Thanks for showing us there’s so much to see under the table and over the wall!
November 14, 2015 at 10:54 am
Kerrie
This was awesome!
November 14, 2015 at 10:54 am
Susie Sawyer
Gah!! I can’t love this enough!! What a brilliant idea. I actually thought I had given this enough thought over the years to understand what my readers see, but THIS was truly eye-opening. Thank you so much, Julie!!
November 14, 2015 at 10:57 am
vickireinhardt2014
What a wonderful idea! This brought back memories from when I was little, looking upward. Adults are pretty big, aren’t they?!?!
November 14, 2015 at 10:59 am
mariagianferrari
Love the video–great idea, Julie! Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 11:00 am
kayt663
This is great! I’ve done this with photography (cat perspective, bird perspective, kid perspective) but never thought of it with video. But this triggered another idea – give a kid a camera and look at the pictures s/he takes. I’ve seen some of these and they are hysterical. Gives an insight into what kids see, notice, think is funny – ESPECIALLY if you have the kid tell you about each picture s/he took. You might want to record it! 🙂 Thanks for the inspiration!!
November 14, 2015 at 11:02 am
Donna
Great idea, Julie! Thanks for your advice!
November 14, 2015 at 11:02 am
tphumiruk
Love that idea! Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 11:03 am
Lee Walker-Brockman
Thank you so much for sharing! I can’t wait to pull out my camera and try the same thing. 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 11:10 am
Kathy Grupe
I have always wondering the perspective of a little kidlit in a stroller at a crowded zoo, park, or fair. What to they exactly see (or not see). Thanks for the perspective!
November 14, 2015 at 11:13 am
sschwartz28
Fantastic! What better way to demonstrate that the way to our readers’ hearts is through their eyes?! Nothing short-sighted about that!
November 14, 2015 at 11:16 am
Sue Morris @ KidLitReviews
Geez, I have forgotten what it’s like to be 3 feet tall. The pigeon had e thinking about flying–on a pigeon. It seemed so much bigger from a child’s perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 11:27 am
Debbie Austin
I have a whole new appreciation of what our readers see and how they see it. It’s so easy to forget. Thank you, Julie!
November 14, 2015 at 11:27 am
Pam Miller
That’s on crazy pigeon, Julie. Thanks for the video inspiration – so cool, I had to share.
November 14, 2015 at 11:28 am
Jennifer Phillips
I love how changing your perspective unleashes the creativity. A very helpful reminder of the need to do that. Thanks! And I didn’t know about kidlit.tv, so I’ll check that out.
November 14, 2015 at 11:28 am
danielledufayet
What great advice. The world’s a different place at 3′ tall and that world belongs to children. Another great idea to enter their space.
November 14, 2015 at 11:29 am
colleenrkosinski
the video was such a good idea!
November 14, 2015 at 11:36 am
Monique
What a wonderful video. Now I’m ready to get my camera out and see what my littles are seeing where we live. Thank you for all your work.
November 14, 2015 at 11:37 am
Aimee Haburjak
Happy birthday Kidlit TV! Great world view from the eyes of a child. thanks😊
November 14, 2015 at 11:39 am
LovableLobo
Love seeing you here, Julie! We so enjoy KidLit TV! Don’t let the pigeon take you on a wild chase or maybe… let it take you on the WILDEST of chases. Another Mo Willems PB? 😀
November 14, 2015 at 11:39 am
Carleen Shreeve
What a wonderful idea! Thanks for the post.
November 14, 2015 at 11:39 am
Mirra Kayne
Awesome prize! Thanks for the video which reminded us all to look at everything from a child’s perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 11:46 am
Karen Lawler
I never thought of videoing the world from their point of view. Terrific idea. Thanks, 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 11:46 am
imartypoet
Thanks for the perspective, Julie!
November 14, 2015 at 11:47 am
Joanne Sher
What a fabulous reminder for each of us – it is SO important to see things from their perspective. Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 11:51 am
angiejonesdraws
Love KidLitTV! Thank you Julie!
November 14, 2015 at 11:52 am
Patricia Kreiser
Thank you for the reminder that a new perspective can spark a new stream of ideas. Oh, the possibilities!
November 14, 2015 at 11:53 am
jhayslett
Butts. I have to laugh! That’s what my little niece told her mom she was tired of smelling after navigating a day at a crowded theme park. Thanks for the reminder — and the great pb idea that came to me as I watched your video!
November 14, 2015 at 11:54 am
Maria Marshall
Thanks for the reminder. That was such a fun video and definitely a great way to see the world through their eyes. Love the idea.
November 14, 2015 at 11:54 am
ajschildrensbooks
Wonderful post, Julie! Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 11:54 am
Ali Pfautz
When I’m storytelling I spend a good chunk of my time on the floor with the kiddos; it definitely can be a whole different view of the world! 🙂 Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 11:56 am
Kirsten Mah
Great reminder to keep our readers in mind- thanks!
November 14, 2015 at 11:57 am
Zainab Khan
Thank you for the advice. The world is larger and fascinating when you see it from a child’s level.
November 14, 2015 at 11:59 am
Ingrid Boydston
I’m excited to learn more about Kidlit TV! As a k teacher, I spend hours of every day sitting on the floor & on tiny chairs w my peeps. I will have to try walking around down there as well! Thanks for the idea.
November 14, 2015 at 12:04 pm
olsenkristen38
Your story of running around in the park at a child height was endearing and inspiring. Thanks for sharing and for opening my eyes to KidLitTV. Best, k.olsen
November 14, 2015 at 12:02 pm
leprechaun5770
Fun post, Julie!
November 14, 2015 at 12:06 pm
Robyn Campbell
Haha, thank you, Julie. I might try that at our mall in Asheville. Such fun. Thanks for the post.
November 14, 2015 at 12:07 pm
cat jones
What a lovely idea your low level film is!
November 14, 2015 at 12:07 pm
Ken Major
I really enjoyed that video, Julie! No wonder kids are so curious about things. They don’t get to see the bigger picture from their vantage point. But you can always put them on your shoulders. Thanks for reminding us about what they see.
November 14, 2015 at 12:09 pm
KASteed
The film was a great idea. It’s a good reminder to put ourselves on the level of the audience we write for. Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 12:10 pm
Beth Blee
Julie, thanks for your post and video! A reminder to see the world from a child’s perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 12:12 pm
Charlotte Dixon
Thank you, Julie, for the child’s perspective. I need to spend more time remembering how short I was and the things that attracted me.
November 14, 2015 at 12:12 pm
authordeb
You’re not the first PiBoIdMo contributor to suggest viewing the world from a child’s perspective, but you are the first to provide a video. This is really helpful because crawling around on my knees is a bit challenging, not to mention tough on my jeans! Thanks so much!
November 14, 2015 at 12:15 pm
orthodoxmom3
What a great idea! I think I’ll be taking more videos soon…..at a whole new level!
November 14, 2015 at 12:16 pm
Priya
That must be awful looking at sagging buts and legs all time as a kid. I would chase a pigeon, too, much more fun. Thanks for making us aware what the little ones see and experience.
November 14, 2015 at 12:28 pm
Debra Shumaker
Love this. Thanks!
November 14, 2015 at 12:28 pm
Deborah Allmand
Lovely way to illustrate a child’s perspective. Thanks for the post.
November 14, 2015 at 12:41 pm
tinawissner
I love BUBBLE GUM PRINCESS and how people and events inspired you:) Darling book, great post!
November 14, 2015 at 12:45 pm
Kimberly Marcus
What a great video! I’m fairly short but not as short as PB reader so it gave me a great view of the undersides of things. Thank you!!
November 14, 2015 at 12:46 pm
Susan Cabael
Love the peering over the fence/wall shots. I’ll be doing lots of perspective research and kid-watching during our trip to amusement parks!
November 14, 2015 at 12:51 pm
Joan Waites
Great info to remember when writing, but also when illustrating a book from a child’s perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 12:52 pm
Katya Szewczuk (@katyaszew)
Wow, Julie you captured a child’s perspective perfectly! I especially loved the part when you had the camera peeking over the fence.
November 14, 2015 at 12:58 pm
ggolant
What a wonderful idea! I tend to forget that the world looks different for short people with short steps…
November 14, 2015 at 12:59 pm
Keila Dawson
Brilliant idea to “walk” in the shoes of our audience to see the world from their view. 😊
November 14, 2015 at 1:03 pm
artsyandi
Love the video… such a great idea for gaining inspiration in a new way. Thanks!
November 14, 2015 at 1:03 pm
cantsing1
Sweet! What a vision. I want to go do that now. A friend and PB writer is in NYC this weekend – might have to email her to get right over to the park!
November 14, 2015 at 1:05 pm
Freckled Daisy Creations
What a brilliant idea! I am totally in this-and I feel like this would a good assignment for my students-life as a bug, or bird, or turtle or….
November 14, 2015 at 1:08 pm
JEN Garrett
Brilliant! Now I’ve got to set my phone on camera and stick it so that it records the view from my front pants pocket. I live in a town pretty enough for fairies. Maybe I’ll catch some!
November 14, 2015 at 1:26 pm
awflitter
Great video and post, Julie. There’s so much we’re missing at our adult level! I want to keep seeing things as a kid again.
November 14, 2015 at 1:26 pm
Patricia Alcaro
Another great reminder to spend time with my four year old self.
November 14, 2015 at 1:27 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
The video was inspirational. I need to spend more time enjoying my surroundings from a lower perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 1:30 pm
Christine Pinto
Wow! Thank you so much for your film! What a simple idea and how powerful. Thanks for reminding me.
November 14, 2015 at 1:33 pm
Bethanny Parker
I loved the video. It was really cool to see things from a different perspective and I loved the lady at the end talking like she was speaking to a child.
November 14, 2015 at 1:44 pm
Lori Alexander
Cute video. Thanks for the clever reminder.
November 14, 2015 at 1:44 pm
Carol Jones
Point Of View is where it’s at!
November 14, 2015 at 1:47 pm
Tracy Molitors
That ‘kids eye view’ was truly inspirational! Thank you, Julie.
November 14, 2015 at 1:54 pm
Colleen Post
What an awesome way to share your inspiration and advice! I know I’m writing for children, but sometimes I still think too much like an adult while brainstrorming and writing. This reminded me to try to think more like a kid… thanks! 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 1:54 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
Thank you, Julie, for this unique look at a child’s perspective. I want to ride on that glorious carousel!! Though the pigeon I can resist — bird phobia.
November 14, 2015 at 1:59 pm
brandimpayne
Haha..that’s great! At 5′, I feel like I’m very close to there all the time. Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 2:00 pm
kpbock
Fantastic idea! I love the dog on the carousel!
November 14, 2015 at 2:00 pm
Mary Jane
I enjoyed the video and the idea of being short with a new perspective. Great post! Thank you.
November 14, 2015 at 2:06 pm
viviankirkfield
Oh my goodness, Julie…I was always the shortest kid in the class…and am still pretty small…and age isn’t helping any, let me assure you.;) 😉 I give this post a gold star for being the most creative!!! You are so right…we need to put ourselves in the place of the kids we are writing for…and that store needs to liven up their dark green panels…just think how awesome if they had fun photographs there instead. 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 2:07 pm
Donna Gwinnell Lambo-Weidner
Geez Julie. I didn’t know how prolific you are. Great post…and Happy Birthday KitLit TV!
November 14, 2015 at 2:23 pm
Annelouise
Thank you Julie for sharing inspiration in such a gentle thoughtful way. Your keen sense of childhood and wonder is inspirational.
November 14, 2015 at 2:23 pm
Sandra Jenkins
I think I’ll try taking a “short” walk with my camera to change my perspective. Great post.
November 14, 2015 at 2:28 pm
mermaidrain
What a great video! I live the literal change in perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 2:28 pm
Marty McCormick
Being short; a huge topic in and of itself. Thanks for the reminder to “think small”!
November 14, 2015 at 2:33 pm
Li'vee Rehfield
I never saw the park that way…I think it is a good day to go and find a pigeon (Magpie Bird in Montana) to chase, and a vine to climb…and maybe I’ll even find a story idea to come home to and write…thank you so very much for helping us see things from a shorter height…
November 14, 2015 at 2:34 pm
Elizabeth Brown
Thanks for your post!
November 14, 2015 at 2:39 pm
Emily Wayne (@emilywayneart)
what a great idea!! it’s amazing what a difference height makes in what we notice!
November 14, 2015 at 2:43 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
What a cool idea! Love it!
November 14, 2015 at 2:53 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
This is so fun! Love literally getting to look at the world like a picture book reader:>)
November 14, 2015 at 2:53 pm
loriannlevyholm
This is also a good exercise for illustrators!
November 14, 2015 at 2:54 pm
Christine M. Irvin
Thanks for the great perspective!
November 14, 2015 at 2:57 pm
Stephen S. Martin
Very inspiring😺. Both in my art and writing I try to think and see things like a cat.
November 14, 2015 at 3:00 pm
Heather Kelso
What a great reminder of the different perspective kids have of the world because of their height. Thank you for the inspirational post!
November 14, 2015 at 3:01 pm
fishpatti
Love the camera technique to get down to kid level. Great idea! Thanks for this post!
November 14, 2015 at 3:10 pm
Mary Worley
Love that you used a camera to see from their perspective. Brilliant!
November 14, 2015 at 3:16 pm
dfrybarger
Such great inspiration and perspective! Now as I walk I will make it a point to look at the “kids-eye view”! Thank you so much for this post!
November 14, 2015 at 3:21 pm
Sherri Jones Rivers
Love this pint size post. So true. When I was working with children in the Bible Study Fellowship program, we had a training one day where one leader stood on a chair and talked with the other leader. It gave the leader on the ground a feel for what it’s like to be small and looking up at people and things.
November 14, 2015 at 3:28 pm
Debra Katz
Yes, the camera was an interesting way to take child’s perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 3:29 pm
Nori Underhill
Thanks! Your short post was a tall order that inspired my short story about a very tall girl. “She was the tallest little girl in the world…so tall that she could ride any ride in the amusement park…so tall that…” …more on my blog.
November 14, 2015 at 9:17 pm
Julie Gribble
Nori! I love your story! Please let me know when it’s finished!
November 14, 2015 at 3:30 pm
Meghan Daniels
I loved the little boy with the penguin then I practically squealed when I saw Pat Cummings at the end.
November 14, 2015 at 9:16 pm
Julie Gribble
I knew you’d like that! She’s a doll!
November 14, 2015 at 3:40 pm
Christine
Thanks for the inspiration!
November 14, 2015 at 3:49 pm
Linda Carpenter
Julie Hello! Many thanks for your post and inspiration. Inspiration is everywhere – sometimes we cannot see the forest for the trees!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!
November 14, 2015 at 3:51 pm
Katelyn Aronson
Great idea, Julie. Thanks for this multimedia post- very fun!
November 14, 2015 at 4:04 pm
Carrie Charley Brown
Ahhh, the wonder of childhood! Thank you so much for bringing me closer to the ground again. You do amazing things at KidLit TV, Julie!
November 14, 2015 at 4:07 pm
Elaine Le Sueur
This was a fun activity to do and I got some new ideas for my collection. Thankyou.
November 14, 2015 at 4:08 pm
lindamartinandersen
33 inches from the ground. A good number and perspective to keep in mind! Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 4:11 pm
Heidi Yates
Thank you Julie! This was a great reminder to look at the world through our readers eyes. 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 4:21 pm
Deirdre Englehart
What a fun way to explore children’s perspectives!
November 14, 2015 at 4:31 pm
saputnam
Great post, Julie!! Thank you for the reminder to look at things from a child’s perspective.
November 14, 2015 at 4:36 pm
Sheryl Davis
Brilliant!
November 14, 2015 at 4:37 pm
Annie Cronin Romano
Always great to walk in another’s shoes to widen one’s perspective!
November 14, 2015 at 4:38 pm
amievc
Great reminder to literally see things from a child’s perspective!
November 14, 2015 at 4:47 pm
Kaye Baillie
Gotta find that inner child.
November 14, 2015 at 4:50 pm
Midge Smith
Love this perspective!
November 14, 2015 at 5:04 pm
jeanjames
This video was awesome, and that vine…so Jack and the Beanstalk, I just wanted to climb to the top!! Great post!
November 14, 2015 at 5:06 pm
Sharon Lillie
I think a creature with wildly colored hair peeked out from that flower pot at me.
November 14, 2015 at 5:17 pm
angeladegroot8
Great post. And thank you for introducing me to KidLitTV.
November 14, 2015 at 5:37 pm
Rebecca Wise Eklund
A nice reminder to get on the level of our kids (and readers). It reminds me of all those counters that seemed so big. I always wanted to know what was going on up there.
November 14, 2015 at 5:41 pm
Heather
I LOVED the video you created! Thanks for sharing your talents and for reminding me to “get back” to a child’s perspective!
November 14, 2015 at 5:44 pm
amyrosas
Cute video! I luckily get to be at that level often with my 4 year old. So fun!
November 14, 2015 at 5:47 pm
marlainagray
What a fun video! I’m glad no pigeons were harmed. 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 5:50 pm
Juliana Lee
Love the video. Thinking I’ll be wanting all my books 33″ off the floor in bookstores everywhere! 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 5:52 pm
angiekarcher
I love that Julie literally looked at the world from a child’s perspective! This was a fun and thought provoking post!
November 14, 2015 at 5:54 pm
Jamie LB Deenihan
Thanks for giving us fresh eyes Julie! Congrats on your success. Great post!
November 14, 2015 at 6:01 pm
Lyn Oxley
Julie, you have a great idea – taking photos from a child’s perspective. Thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 6:12 pm
writeknit
Thanks for reminding me of tiny people we are writing for. Knees, butts and nose to nose with dogs has to make their days more interesting than ours.
November 14, 2015 at 6:13 pm
Gabi Snyder
Great video! Thanks for the reminder to consider our readers’ POV.
November 14, 2015 at 6:34 pm
Jane Hawkins
Thanks for reminder to consider perspective of our intended audience.
November 14, 2015 at 6:35 pm
Christine Connolly
Great perspective – literally!
November 14, 2015 at 6:52 pm
marianallanos
Love this!
November 14, 2015 at 6:53 pm
Jillian Michel
Thanks for the advice! It’s good to remember what it’s like to be small.
November 14, 2015 at 6:54 pm
Jeni Kocher Zerphy
Perspective is everything!
November 14, 2015 at 6:55 pm
Louann Brown
Loved the video. Great example of “show not tell”. Plus, it gave me a great idea. Thanks!
November 14, 2015 at 7:00 pm
jdewdropsofink
Definitely gives me a different perspective. Thank you.
November 14, 2015 at 7:07 pm
Sallianne
I love that you brought up this idea of perspective. I never thought of it that way!!
November 14, 2015 at 7:17 pm
Janet Halfmann
Thanks for reminding us to keep our eyes in the kids’ world.
November 14, 2015 at 7:29 pm
teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer)
Great video. I’m going to give that a try!
November 14, 2015 at 7:37 pm
Joan Marie Arbogast
They say a picture is worth a thousand words… This video is worth even more! Thanks for sharing.
November 14, 2015 at 7:41 pm
Chana Stiefel
Thanks Julie! Love the kiddie cam!
November 14, 2015 at 7:46 pm
Julie Murphy
Another different perspective from which to approach PiBoIdMo – fantastic! Your post triggered some useful memories that had been stored away, collecting cobwebs, from when I was much smaller. Thanks so much, Julie.
November 14, 2015 at 7:54 pm
Joannie Duris
Thanks, Julie. What a fun way to really see the world through the eyes of a child. It’s true that a picture is worth a thousand words.
November 14, 2015 at 7:55 pm
A. P. Alessandri
This is such a great idea and one I don’t think we think about as often as we should. Thank you for that reminder!
November 14, 2015 at 8:02 pm
gretchengeser
Thank you for your post. So fun! So true!
November 14, 2015 at 8:09 pm
Mark A. Bentz
Great post Julie. Thank you for reminding us to see what kids see from their point of view.
November 14, 2015 at 8:20 pm
ELJohnsen
What a great idea! Thank you, Julie!
November 14, 2015 at 8:25 pm
Sharon Giltrow
Wow thanks Julie what a great idea will definitely be giving it a try on my next walk through the adult world.
November 14, 2015 at 8:35 pm
Maria Bostian
It’s all about perspective. Thanks so much for reminding us of that today.
November 14, 2015 at 9:09 pm
Darlene Gaston
Thanks for reminding us to think about how tall our readers are and what life is like for them at their height.
November 14, 2015 at 9:19 pm
Cindy E. Owens
I loved that video! It was too cute and funny. I especially loved that little bird under the cafe table. It was SO adorable! Thanks for reminding us to see through the eyes of a child.
November 14, 2015 at 9:27 pm
baublekat
Fantastic video. Yes, I have forgotten what it is like to be that height! Thanks for the inspiration.
November 14, 2015 at 9:30 pm
erikammon
oooh, perspective from the kids’ point of view…hmmm…Love that prize pack, too 🙂 Thanks for the post!!
November 14, 2015 at 9:31 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Lately, my 6 year old has been running around inside and out with my digital camera. Every time I look at her photos, it’s a revelation. But now I’ll look at them specifically with picture books in mind – thank you!
November 14, 2015 at 9:53 pm
LJ Laniewski
Thanks for the new view…and the inspiration! 🙂
November 14, 2015 at 9:53 pm
lindaschueler
I recently wrote a manuscript that was height related, but now I’m going to do some more research just like you suggested.
November 14, 2015 at 9:56 pm
Hélène Sabourin
It s all about knowing the audience and there’s no better way to find out
November 14, 2015 at 10:00 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Through the eyes of children we can learn so much. Thank you, Julie for an interesting and fun perspective to capture inspiration and ideas.
~Suzy Leopold
November 14, 2015 at 10:12 pm
Lois Wickstrom
height is a mix of what you can and can’t do. I have different restrictions as an adult.
November 14, 2015 at 10:14 pm
Leslie Leibhardt Goodman - Writer
I am definitely going to try this with my camera. Can’t wait to see the video.Thanks for an inspired idea!
November 14, 2015 at 10:16 pm
Donna L Martin
Nothing more to say than…I. LOVE. THIS. POST! That is all…
November 14, 2015 at 10:17 pm
Andria Rosenbaum
Butts and birds and jugglers, oh my! Thanks for the new point of view!
November 14, 2015 at 10:18 pm
Elizabeth Metz
This is so simple and yet so powerful, thank you Julie! It made me remember an incident at the zoo when I worked as a day camp counselor years ago that… huh, might make an interesting picture book basis. PIBOIDMO BLOG MISSON ACCOMPLISHED. 😉
November 14, 2015 at 10:22 pm
laura516
Neat idea. I’ll have to give that camera trick a try.
November 14, 2015 at 10:27 pm
Jenifer
Enjoyed the post especially the video. It reminds me of when I took my small child to town, walked around, and saw the XMAS sights
November 14, 2015 at 10:32 pm
kdveiten
Oh to be a kid again!
November 14, 2015 at 10:32 pm
Amy Houts
What an interesting perspective. The video was eye-opening! Thank you for the suggestion. I will keep that in mind now.
November 14, 2015 at 10:40 pm
Lotus Ivak
Julie, that’s a great point of view!
November 14, 2015 at 10:40 pm
Juliann (Juli) Caveny
That was such fun! Thanks for sharing with us! I have vivid memories of not being able to reach the kitchen counter tops. It seems so strange when I stand next to them now. 🙂 Love seeing/remembering the world through the perspective of childhood!
November 14, 2015 at 10:41 pm
Rebecca
I like the idea of holding the camera low. Good idea! Might be easier than crawling around on my knees!
November 14, 2015 at 10:58 pm
carolyn
I absolutely love your video. It’s a completely different world at that level. Being only 5 feet tall myself, I can relate to the differing perspective. Instead of legs though, I see mostly elbows…and nose hair 😉
November 14, 2015 at 11:08 pm
Andrea K. Lawson
Your video was a fun idea! thanks for reminding us about the height of our readers!
November 14, 2015 at 11:26 pm
writeremmcbride
Elizabeth McBride – What fun Julie! Can you imagine how many belt buckles and glittery jean pockets our young readers are faced with every day? And here I was jealous of all their light-show shoes!!!
Sent from my iPhone
>
November 14, 2015 at 11:30 pm
ptnozell
I thought I knew Bryant Park until I watched the video! I have been missing so much. Thank you, Julie, for the encouragement to see the world from the height of our readers.
November 14, 2015 at 11:50 pm
Zoraida Rivera Morales
Well, being short can have its advantaged!
Important lesson.
November 14, 2015 at 11:50 pm
Rajani LaRocca
I love chasing pigeons! 🙂 Thanks for the reminder of what it’s like to be small.
November 14, 2015 at 11:53 pm
Mary Jo Tannehill
Love the child’s perspective.
November 15, 2015 at 12:10 am
Jill Richards Proctor
Loved the video and your reminder of a child’s perspective! And I love pigeons. 🙂 And a late Happy Birthday to you.
November 15, 2015 at 12:19 am
hmmmmm
Thanks Julie. I had fun imagining you crawling through Bryant park on your hands and knees.
November 15, 2015 at 12:27 am
Trine
Ingenious!
November 15, 2015 at 12:50 am
Susan L. Roberts
Great idea, 33″ off the ground. I’m going to try it out at the park tomorrow!
Thanks.
November 15, 2015 at 12:53 am
Rosi Hollinbeck
What a great exercise. It’s so important to find ways to visit our child selves when writing for little ones. Thanks for this post.
November 15, 2015 at 1:01 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
Kids would also notice other people/beings the same height. In a NYC park this could be dogs, really short but full-grown adults, tourists sitting on the ground eating lunch…
November 15, 2015 at 1:25 am
Jessica Burnam
Hi Julie – I’m so impressed that you founded KitLit.tv. It’s fabulous! Now, regarding seeing the world from the height of a little ‘un, what happens for the adult who’s already pint-size (like me)? Anyhoots, I know exactly what you’re suggesting, and I’ll give it a whirl. Great idea, and thank you! 🙂
November 15, 2015 at 1:44 am
Mary Greer
Thanks for the perspective.
November 15, 2015 at 2:20 am
Leah Perlongo
Ok. Strange question. Why are there earplugs in the KidLit Tv package?
November 15, 2015 at 2:22 am
Kevin Klein
Brilliant little video! Thanks, Julie. And for Kidlit.tv – a regular stop for me. Great work.
November 15, 2015 at 2:32 am
Catherine Friess
This is a great idea Julie. I’m going to try it 🙂
November 15, 2015 at 2:44 am
Artelle Lenthall
Great idea. Thanks Julie
November 15, 2015 at 2:48 am
mollywog2015
Thank you for your post! Getting into a kids mindset feels really great
November 15, 2015 at 3:24 am
Tony Williams
Great idea. Thanks Julie
November 15, 2015 at 3:27 am
Shelley Marshall
Thanks for this perspective reminder Julie. After viewing your video it occurs to me that we’ve gotta decorate walls that block the view of our kids like the ones under a store counter. We could build them with panels of light catching colored glass……or place a chalkboard across the wall so kids could leave their mark, or build them with shelves we could fill with interesting little things for our kids to tour with their curious eyes, or ….or…or…..
Doing this would be a most considerate gesture for the kids who are waiting for their adults who are carrying on conversations with other tall people at counters……. “up there.”
November 15, 2015 at 4:43 am
Laurie L Young
Brilliant!
November 15, 2015 at 5:20 am
Freda lewkowicz
Thank you for reminding me about perspective. I’d forgotten.
November 15, 2015 at 8:13 am
Anna Smith
What a great way to get another point of view! Thank you.
November 15, 2015 at 8:36 am
Liz LeSavoy
Thanks for the reminder of what the word REALLY looks like to a child!
November 15, 2015 at 9:33 am
Cathy Breisacher
Your post was so much fun to read! Great advice on keeping the kid perspective in focus.
November 15, 2015 at 9:33 am
Jim Chaize
A great way to remember that we write for young children. Thanks.
November 15, 2015 at 9:49 am
Pamela_Berkman
Fun! Nothing like the concrete, physical detail, the thinking about how things REALLY look to a reader.
November 15, 2015 at 9:52 am
Anna Levin
Great video! Helps so much to change perspective. Inspiring!
November 15, 2015 at 9:55 am
Penny Parker Klostermann
Great reminder to write from their view and point of view instead of ours. Thanks, Julie!
November 15, 2015 at 9:57 am
Susan Schade
I love this! Thank you for the inspiring post.
November 15, 2015 at 10:09 am
Fran Price
Thanks for your post. I have forgotten what it’s like to be so small, must try and walk around in little people’s shoes now and then.
November 15, 2015 at 11:02 am
Hayley Barrett
At only 60″ tall, I’m not far off! I’ll just crouch down a bit… 🙂 Thanks, Julie!
November 15, 2015 at 11:41 am
Michelle
Great idea, i must try it!
November 15, 2015 at 12:19 pm
Caren Cantrell
Love the idea of carrrying a video camera at kid level. So much easier on the knees!
November 15, 2015 at 12:21 pm
jshaklan
Changing perspective, literally, sounds like a fantastic way to generate new ideas. Thanks!
November 15, 2015 at 12:21 pm
wyszguy
Very interesting & helpful approach to a story. Thanks!
November 15, 2015 at 12:29 pm
pepb16416
To the author of “Bubblegum Princess” – I enjoyed your essay about the height of your readers. I have crawled around to experience what my dog sees, but I never thought to video the view at “child level.” Thank you for the idea.
November 15, 2015 at 12:40 pm
Jacqueline
Thanks for sharing the video! It was eye-opening to see how different things seem from kid-level.
November 15, 2015 at 12:45 pm
Marileta Robinson
What wonders await when you only open your eyes. Thanks for the inspiring reminder.
November 15, 2015 at 12:59 pm
Sandy Powell
It’s amazing what we can see when we really open our eyes. Even the little things can be wonderful and inspiring. Thank you!
November 15, 2015 at 1:12 pm
claireannette1
Great idea to look at life from a child’s viewpoint. As a kindergarten teacher, I spend a lot of time on the floor with the kids and I think it makes a big difference when I’m not towering over them.
November 15, 2015 at 1:23 pm
Carrie Moore Chan
The video did not show up on the post on my email, so when I clicked on comment I started seeing comments about the great video. I am so glad that I scrolled back up and found it! I had to see the little boy ice skating with a penguin. Great perspective! Thanks.
November 15, 2015 at 1:28 pm
Sandie Sing
I am short. Most of my second graders has my height. If you are in primary grades, you are able to hear their age level language too. Thank you for sharing the height awareness because it makes me be alert for their perspectives in their tastes and surrounding environment.
November 15, 2015 at 2:40 pm
Darlene Ivy
What a creative and powerful post! Thank you for the video! It was awesome!
November 15, 2015 at 2:42 pm
shiela fuller
To walk in your reader’s shoes is to understand your reader. Thank you for the reminder.
November 15, 2015 at 2:52 pm
kirsticall
I love this idea, Julie! My 5 year old son takes pictures on my phone from his point of view all the time and I find it fascinating. Loved the movie too!
November 15, 2015 at 3:03 pm
Sheri Radovich
Loved your facebook video of the park from a 36 inch tall viewpoint. I r
eally need to get out and walk more for stimulation of ideas.
November 15, 2015 at 3:17 pm
Gracie Idzal
What a fun idea. Thanks for the great perspective!
November 15, 2015 at 4:26 pm
Pat Scruggs
Cute video. Eye opening. We do tend to forget, don’t we?
November 15, 2015 at 4:31 pm
Jill
I enjoy a similar experience when I watch videos my kids have taken. Thanks for the idea to use that as inspiration for writing. 🙂
November 15, 2015 at 4:53 pm
hermanator33
This just gave me my day 15 idea, woo-hoo, many thanks to you!
November 15, 2015 at 5:12 pm
Cinzia
Great perspective – to get a shorter perspective. Thanks!
November 15, 2015 at 5:29 pm
Red said what?
Wonderful! Thank you for the perspective :-).
November 15, 2015 at 5:33 pm
Susan Nicholas
Butts and legs! I like your idea of looking at the world from the view of our short readers.
November 15, 2015 at 5:40 pm
LaurenKerstein
What a wonderful idea and such a fabulous, important perspective!
November 15, 2015 at 5:41 pm
aliciaminor
We are writing for small people who gave us big ideas for picture books. Writing at eye level for children is a great idea. Thanks for sharing.
November 15, 2015 at 5:58 pm
andreesantini
Great idea, thanks. Is there a follow up video that shows you chasing the pigeons?
November 15, 2015 at 6:09 pm
mona861
I enjoyed our walk through the park. Thank you.
November 15, 2015 at 6:21 pm
Sherry Alexander
I spend a lot of time sitting on short chairs when I help out at school. Sitting that low to the ground helps me understand what kids think especially when an adult wants to chat, and it seems they are so much taller that they really area.
November 15, 2015 at 6:40 pm
lgalaske
What a great idea – to view the world as our audience sees it. Thank you so much!
November 15, 2015 at 6:55 pm
Amelia Gossman
wonderful! Definitely reminded me of what it was like to be so small. Though I still chase pigeons even as a 24 year old!
November 15, 2015 at 7:06 pm
Brook Gideon (@brookgideon)
That was an awesome video! A lot of us remember how we felt at that age, but I think we do forget how we saw things. Thanks for reminding us. And I recognized Pat, how funny!
November 15, 2015 at 8:38 pm
lauramulveyphotography
That is such a great way to shed a new light on ideas!
November 15, 2015 at 8:59 pm
Ashley Pierson
I loved your post, Julie! Good reminder as we write.
November 15, 2015 at 11:54 pm
Janet Smart
Thanks, Julie!
November 16, 2015 at 12:10 am
Joanna Szeto
I like the video. Now I know what my kids see.
November 16, 2015 at 12:18 am
writersideup
Julie, I LOVE this video. What a clever way to see the “short” world without having to get on your knees 🙂 Thanks!
November 16, 2015 at 12:58 am
wendymyersart
Great video! And now I get why my daughter always chased the seagulls.
November 16, 2015 at 4:17 am
zeena pliska
great perspective
November 16, 2015 at 4:53 am
Helen Cooper
So true – the world at a child’s eye level is such a different one to the one that we see. Look down, look up – look all the places where grown-ups don’t usually look 🙂
November 16, 2015 at 8:17 am
lmconnors
What a great way to remind us to think/be like children! Thank you.
November 16, 2015 at 9:04 am
Laura Bellina
Thanks for reminding me to view the world from a childs perspective.
November 16, 2015 at 9:23 am
Barbara Cairns
I always have my camera ready. Now, I plan to start shooting it “down” a few degrees. Great advice. Thanks, Julie.
November 16, 2015 at 9:52 am
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
Thanks for reminding us to think on a different level
November 16, 2015 at 9:56 am
Lesley Higgins
I loved the juxtaposition of the too-tall-counter blocking the view and the vines reaching for the sky, inviting a climb. I teared up and then my heart soared! Thanks for sharing!
November 16, 2015 at 10:23 am
Sue Poduska
How cool is that? Thanks for the insight!
November 16, 2015 at 10:33 am
Kim Hedzik
Great idea to remember our readers’ height. Too often I write from 5″7” as I stand:)
November 16, 2015 at 10:37 am
Erin O'Brien
Wonderful perspective! Thank you, Julie!
November 16, 2015 at 11:04 am
tanjabauerle
Hey, I know that pigeon. Just kidding. Wow! What an eye opener! As an Illustrator I found this especially helpful. You have me inspired that i want to try this excersise myself to see what inspirations come to me. Thank you. T
November 16, 2015 at 11:38 am
Joan Swanson
This experiment was most helpful. I forgot what it was like to only see things down low. Thank you!
November 16, 2015 at 11:42 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
Thanks Julie for reminding us to get short every once in a while. It certainly helps.
November 16, 2015 at 12:23 pm
Kirsten Carlson (@kirstencarlson)
So fun to see Pat at the end! Love the way you edited your child-sized adventure. Pigeon was great. Perspective is everything.
November 16, 2015 at 1:09 pm
karadhya
Thanks for the great idea for getting in touch with our inner children!
November 16, 2015 at 1:23 pm
ammwrite3
Wow–did the fabulous author/illustrator Pat Cummings just happen to be sitting on that bench at the end? 🙂 Love, love, love the video–this is my biggest weakness as a writer, I think–becoming a child again. Thanks for this. I very much needed it.
November 16, 2015 at 1:33 pm
Erin Nowak
Loved the video! Pat Cummings! Also, no wonder I can never get my 4 year old to be patient at a counter. It’s just a wall to him!
November 16, 2015 at 1:44 pm
City Sights for Kids
What a great change of perspective and such a fun video!
– Amanda Sincavage
November 16, 2015 at 2:36 pm
Gregory E Bray
Reminds me of a film i made in college where we toured the campus through the eyes of a dog. It had an obvious name which I didn’t care for but everyone else in the group liked.
November 16, 2015 at 2:51 pm
Heather
I love this video. So helpful in reminding me what it was like to stand at a counter totally unseen, and to notice the things that the grown-up with me probably doesn’t see and probably doesn’t find important or unique or new in someway. Thank you!
November 16, 2015 at 3:50 pm
Anita Banks
Thank you for a wonderful post.
November 16, 2015 at 4:04 pm
Dawn Young
What a clever post! That video really puts it into perspective! Thank you Julie 🙂
November 16, 2015 at 5:03 pm
Rene Aube
Great reminder of how different the world is for those littles! Thanks, Julie! 🙂 Happy PiBoIdMo
November 16, 2015 at 5:29 pm
shirley johnson
Wonderful reminder. Thanks for sharing.
November 16, 2015 at 9:56 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Life’s daily adventures as seen on a kiddos level.
Something we must keep in mind in order to relate to them through our art – writing and illustration.
November 16, 2015 at 10:51 pm
Pia Garneau
Cleverly simple and simply clever!
November 16, 2015 at 11:29 pm
Janie Reinart
Julie, fabulous idea! Love the pigeon.
November 17, 2015 at 2:07 am
Sarah Harroff
Thanks for adjusting our perspective.
November 17, 2015 at 2:16 am
Chris Regier (@cmregier)
Lovely. Thank you for reminding me of how the world looks to someone small.
November 17, 2015 at 2:57 am
Tim McCanna
Thanks Julie! Great eye-opener.
November 17, 2015 at 5:20 am
martylgraham
Perspective hmmm! The physical side of it, the actuality! Thank you. And a trip like that is fun with a friend, or a whole gaggle of them! Thanks Julie for sharing your own keen wit!
November 17, 2015 at 10:07 am
leandrajwallace
This is really thought-provoking! And using a camera to ‘see’ what they see is a neat idea.
November 20, 2015 at 4:21 am
Julie Gribble
Thank you, Leandra!
November 17, 2015 at 10:14 am
Tracey M. Cox
LOVE the perspective view you gave us. That visually reinforced to me that we not only have to think like our readers, but we have to see and explore that world as them too.
*whispers* I like chasing pigeons too.
November 20, 2015 at 4:21 am
Julie Gribble
Hey Tracey! Exploring the world like our readers do is extremely helpful, isn’t it?
We’ll chase pigeons together whenever you get to NYC!
November 17, 2015 at 10:32 am
donnacangelosi
Beautiful post with such a great message, Julie! Looking at the world from our little readers’ perspective is the only way we can capture their interest in our stories.
November 20, 2015 at 4:19 am
Julie Gribble
Thank you, Donna! I am so happy you enjoyed it!
November 17, 2015 at 10:53 am
Jessica Nims
I love this!
November 17, 2015 at 12:05 pm
Alison Goldberg
Thank you for a great post!
November 17, 2015 at 1:01 pm
Kelly Vavala
What a wonderful post! Just beautiful how you captured the world from a child’s point of view. We tend to forget what things look like on their level. Thank you so much for this inspiring post!
November 20, 2015 at 4:18 am
Julie Gribble
You’re welcome, Kelly! I hope it inspired you to think of a title or two for PiBoidMo!
November 17, 2015 at 1:18 pm
Christie Allred (@ChristieAllred)
I am just now catching up on a week’s worth of PiBoIdMo posts. I love your video – that lady with the dog on the merry-go-round! Oh my word. 🙂 Thank you for a chance to win this prize!
November 20, 2015 at 4:16 am
Julie Gribble
How serendipitous, right? I could not have picked a better time to film that merry-go-round …
So happy you liked the post. Thank you, Christie!
November 17, 2015 at 1:53 pm
Karen Brueggeman
Great idea
November 17, 2015 at 2:41 pm
Ronna Mandel (@RonnaWriter)
Okay, Julie, this is SO why you founded KidLitTV. What originality, humor, inspiration. I ate this up, not to mention it was filmed by the library I adore down to my core. TYVM for sharing!!
November 20, 2015 at 4:14 am
Julie Gribble
Oh, thank you so much Ronna! So many of my friends express themselves through visual media as well. I think that’s why I’m drawn to picture books.
I adore that library, too! Do you get to go often?
November 17, 2015 at 3:01 pm
Lisa Charlebois
Loved your video. Great to see the world in a different perspective! Thanks!
November 17, 2015 at 3:05 pm
Jennifer DuBose
Fantastic! Kids really notice things. Symmetry, the presence or absence of things, and pigeons 🙂
November 20, 2015 at 4:09 am
Julie Gribble
Mo Willems was onto something when he chose the pigeon as his protagonist. I was drawn to them at that height! (Good thing there were no squirrels around, or I would’ve been after them, too!)
November 17, 2015 at 4:16 pm
Doris Stone
Thank you, Julie. Your suggestions are great.
November 17, 2015 at 7:04 pm
Matt Tesoriero
Oh yes. A 33″ perspective is key for Picture Book writers!
November 20, 2015 at 4:06 am
Julie Gribble
Thank you, Matt!
November 17, 2015 at 9:20 pm
Diane Gronas
Thanks for the reminder of perspective. I do remember being more connected to nature at a young age. As an adult I don’t get sent outside to play. Children are keen observers when you least expect it.
November 20, 2015 at 4:05 am
Julie Gribble
I agree. I was either up a tree, playing with our pets, playing in the dirt, or fishing, or swimming … so many more “or”s to add here. Hmm, so “go out and play!” There, I sent you out. (I hope that helps! 😉 )
November 17, 2015 at 11:45 pm
Eric Adler
Great reminder. Thanks.
November 18, 2015 at 1:13 pm
Christy Peterson
Yay! Idea #18 in the book thanks to your post. 🙂 Thank you.
November 20, 2015 at 3:59 am
Julie Gribble
Super! You’re welcome!
November 18, 2015 at 2:44 pm
Cathy Sledz
Great way to do it and I love all that you captured, even in a short jaunt.
November 20, 2015 at 3:58 am
Julie Gribble
Thank you, Cathy! It was a pleasure to make this video just for PiBoIdMo participants. Good luck!
November 18, 2015 at 4:13 pm
billiesgirl
Great reminder to switch up your perspective!
November 20, 2015 at 3:57 am
Julie Gribble
Thank you!
November 18, 2015 at 6:48 pm
Dorothy Wiese
Thanks! What a great idea. You saw lots of things that a “tall” adult would miss. Skating with a “penguin?”
November 20, 2015 at 3:56 am
Julie Gribble
Yes, lots of things! And I did edit out the moment that the camera was smacked by the purse of a woman who was in quite a rush …
November 18, 2015 at 7:48 pm
carolmunrojww
You’ve reminded me how much time I spent on tiptoes, Julie. Thanks for the new POV.
November 20, 2015 at 3:54 am
Julie Gribble
You are welcome, Carol. The scene at the counter reminded me of Mike Curato’s Little Elliot — the look on Little Elliot’s face at the cupcake bakery counter is so very familiar isn’t it?
November 19, 2015 at 3:34 pm
Elizabeth
And I didn’t even know there was a kidlit Tv! Thanks for the perspective ideas too!
November 20, 2015 at 3:49 am
Julie Gribble
You’re welcome. kidLit TV just celebrated out 1st birthday this past Monday. Please check out the site and let us know what you think!
http://kidlit.tv
November 19, 2015 at 5:42 pm
Caroline
This is awesome! Love this reminder of perspective, and yay for Pat Cummings! I got to hear her speak at a conference and she was fantastic!
November 20, 2015 at 3:48 am
Julie Gribble
Pat Cummings is simply lovely! Which conference did you hear her speak at, Caroline? I met her at the NY SCBWI winter conference.
November 20, 2015 at 1:31 am
vkurojipatrick
Thank you for #PiBoldMo
November 20, 2015 at 7:38 am
Dee Knabb
You have the habit of looking at things visually, theatrically, which makes great storytelling. I’m a big fan of Kidlit TV. Thanks, Julie.
November 20, 2015 at 12:21 pm
viji
wonderful video! thank you for giving me perspective!
November 20, 2015 at 12:21 pm
Jill Tadros
Smile. I’m smiling because this was such a lovely little journey of a post!
November 21, 2015 at 9:32 am
Sheila Lynch-Afryl
Great post.
November 21, 2015 at 1:52 pm
Cassie Bentley
Thank you for the shortened perspective and reminding me of what it’s like to be a kid.
November 21, 2015 at 4:34 pm
Donna Carey
I remember trying to see the top of the kitchen table when I was little. As a matter of fact, this gives me an idea for a story.
November 21, 2015 at 7:51 pm
Holly Ruppel
So fun, Julie! I think it’s super important to try and see the world from a child’s perspective. To try and walk in those (smaller) shoes again. Thanks so much!
November 22, 2015 at 2:56 am
renajtraxel
What a great idea! Thanks for the video.
November 22, 2015 at 4:17 pm
Sandi Lawson
Awesome! I need to check out kidlitTV.
November 22, 2015 at 6:18 pm
Linda Hofke
I read this post and had to chuckle…I HAD to. 🙂
November 22, 2015 at 6:36 pm
Donna Rossman
Loved the video! So glad no pigeons were hurt in the filming. What a great idea It will definitely keep the idea in my mind of how tall my reader is! Many thanks! 🙂
November 22, 2015 at 6:37 pm
Pamela Haskin
Thanks, Julie! Great video. Thanks for sharing with us.
November 22, 2015 at 7:15 pm
rupalimulge
A couple of children writing books I have been going through mention the same thing, but the video here actually catches the gist 🙂 thanks for taking the time for that walk and sharing it.
November 22, 2015 at 10:47 pm
bleakx
This just in time for a new take on Thanksgiving. Camera in hand at the grandsons eye level, we are going to undo our unbelievable adultness and reinspire thankful.
November 23, 2015 at 8:05 am
Jabeen Chawdhry
Its so important to get down to the same level of our audience, we need to see things how they see them, experience life as they see it, great reminder, thanks!
November 23, 2015 at 9:51 am
Marie Monteagudo
Julie,
I plan to take pictures to look at life from a kid’s eye-level. What a great idea! Enjoyed the tour of the Eric Carle Museum on your Kidlit TV too!
November 23, 2015 at 3:14 pm
Michelle Cusolito
AHHH! Literally got an idea while watching! Thank you!
November 23, 2015 at 7:25 pm
rythmicrhyme
The video at a 33” perspective was really important to see to spark memories, feelings and ideas. As a creative dance teacher for young children I’ve spent a lot of time on the floor with kids but have forgotten about size distortion. Big and little are not just simple concepts…a Pandora box of feelings, attitudes, expectations and imaginings. Thank you for the reminder to get down, into kid shoes, and be playful.
November 24, 2015 at 1:43 am
Michelle Kogan Illustration, Painting & Writing
Julie, what a fantastically fun video!!! Loved the music too! I’m a big birder and always seem to notice them.Thanks for all that’s here, and all you do, Cheers!
November 24, 2015 at 3:16 pm
lisa patten
That old adage – know your reader – but easy to forget. Life is very different when you’re so little. Thanks for the reminder
November 24, 2015 at 8:26 pm
Janice Brown
Thank you so much Julie!
November 25, 2015 at 10:42 am
Kelly Parker
Sometimes it takes a different point of view to discover new things. Loved this post! Thank you!
November 25, 2015 at 11:45 am
heidimrogers
What a brilliant idea! Going to attempt this as we hit the pediatrician’s office today. 🙂
November 26, 2015 at 3:27 am
tinamcho
Thanks for helping us see the perspective of our little readers!
November 26, 2015 at 8:57 am
Kelly Hochbein
This is brilliant! Love it. Thanks, Julie!
November 26, 2015 at 6:47 pm
Damon Dean, SevenAcreSky
Thanks Julie for putting us in our place as kidlitters… right where we should be writing from.
November 27, 2015 at 4:41 am
Frannyb
That’s brilliant- putting the camera low to reveal the perspective of little ones is clever. Bums and legs, ha!
November 27, 2015 at 9:32 pm
amymariesmith
Thanks for the perspective, Julie!
November 28, 2015 at 10:26 am
Betsy Devany
Thanks, Julie! This is why I work at an old-fashioned toy store, I am surrounded by kids, our readers.
November 28, 2015 at 10:15 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
Awesome idea to take an actual video!
November 29, 2015 at 12:56 am
Caroline Lee Webster (@uncoverthepearl)
What a fun video, and what an important exercise to take ourselves through as writers, when thinking of our readers’ worlds. Lovely prize package, too! Thank you.
November 29, 2015 at 11:35 am
kmshelley
Great reminder about vantage point of our amazing readers. Thanks!
November 29, 2015 at 8:18 pm
Rona Shirdan
Julie, you sound like a fun person! That alone will put you in the right mindset to be a successful picture book writer. Awesome!
November 29, 2015 at 8:29 pm
Heather Greene
Love it! Thank you!
November 30, 2015 at 11:38 am
tinawissner
Oops. I never commented on your post. (I am going back to re-check all posts!) I have used your suggestions throughout the month. Your advice has really kept me creative. Thanks a ton!!
November 30, 2015 at 2:13 pm
Dee Engle
Julie, I loved your post! I’m about to journey out to view the world from 33″ high. I need to remember what it’s like to be a kid. Great advice.
November 30, 2015 at 7:08 pm
Jean Isani
I’m enjoying my adventures at 33”. Thanks for the tip and KidLit TV, Julie!
November 30, 2015 at 7:58 pm
Keeping the Me in Mommy
Lol-it truly is all about perspective. Taking a peek through someone else’s eyes (at another’s height) is what story making is all about for sure:)
November 30, 2015 at 8:03 pm
Myrna Foster
Thanks for the reminder that perspective is important and can be inspiring!
December 1, 2015 at 8:47 am
rdvanhorn
Julie, thanks for the reminder of he size of those I am writing to. Your thoughts are giving me perspective as I generate new ideas this November!!!
December 2, 2015 at 11:36 am
Lauri Meyers
What a great insight!
December 5, 2015 at 5:11 pm
Maria J Cuesta
I love the idea!! I NEED to try myself!!
Thank you!!
December 5, 2015 at 7:04 pm
Nancy Kotkin
An interesting perspective, indeed. Thanks!
January 7, 2017 at 4:18 pm
Jennifer Bower
Hi Julie. What a fun post. We just had our first snow and I can’t think of anytime better to get outside and explore my surroundings with a child’s point of view in mind. It is no telling what I will discover. Thanks for a great post.
January 12, 2017 at 6:34 pm
Julie Gribble
Lovely! I hope you were able to make snow angels (one of my favorite things to do).
January 7, 2017 at 8:26 pm
jhayslett
Great, enlightening perspective! Thanks, Julie!
January 12, 2017 at 6:35 pm
Julie Gribble
You are so welcome!
January 8, 2017 at 12:13 am
Kristin Wauson
Love this idea of seeing the world from a child’s perspective. Thank you!
January 12, 2017 at 6:35 pm
Julie Gribble
It was my pleasure!
January 8, 2017 at 7:47 am
Martti Maguet
I tried this on my knees! Didn’t get that far but it was an interesting experiment. Thank you for this reminder to look at things from another angle.
January 12, 2017 at 6:31 pm
Julie Gribble
Awesome — as long as you can get back up without hurting yourself!
January 8, 2017 at 9:44 am
Michele Helsel
I like the interesting perspective. It brought back childhood frustrations about wanting to see more.
January 13, 2017 at 3:25 pm
Janie Reinart
Love the video and the kid’s eye view😊