First graders at Dogwood Elementary captured the magic of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with a creative and educational project inspired by the picture book Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet. Spearheaded by first-grade teacher Kelly Martens, the project united the entire grade level in a vibrant celebration of imagination and learning.
Students began by diving into the fascinating process behind the creation of the iconic parade balloons. They learned how these massive inflatables are designed, constructed, and filled with helium to soar above the streets of New York City. Building on this knowledge, each student was tasked with designing their very own balloon concept for the Macy’s parade.
Taking the project to the next level, students wrote persuasive letters to Macy’s, giving two reasons why their balloon should join the parade lineup. This activity blended creativity with critical writing skills, helping students advocate for their unique designs.
The final product is a mural displayed in the school’s hallway. Ms. Dodge, the instructional technology coach, collaborated with teachers to design a New York City skyline using Canva. Teacher assistants cut out photographs of the students, which were paired with images of their balloon creations. The mural showcases the students "holding" their custom balloons against the backdrop of a bustling cityscape, creating a dynamic and engaging display.
“This project was such a joy,” said Ms. Martens. “It allowed the students to explore creativity while learning about art, writing, and history in a meaningful way.”
The Balloons Over Broadway project has not only brought the spirit of the holiday season to Dogwood Elementary but has also inspired young minds to dream big.