Destination ImagiNation

I've been known to harp on the importance of imaginary play, creative thinking and problem solving. To my delight, Whittier's PTA promotes participation in a program called Destination ImagiNation. In a nutshell, students use creative thinking, problem solving and teamwork to complete a series of challenges, culminating in a team challenge they present at the DI regional tournament.

Will's team, Team Dynaphoenix, put on a skit about Big Bug, a giant orange insect, who falls into a rocket and accidentally launches himself into space. Nine months later, his rocket lands and he meets three friends who help ease his transition to life on Mars.
The friends are friends in real life: Ryan was Big Bug, Matthew was the LEGO DJ dude, Jack was the one-inch killer insect, and Will was the barrel of TNT with a smiley face. Teddy practiced with the team, but was out of town for the tournament.
A sneak peek of the skit: Big Bug, woozy from his fall into the rocket, tries to push buttons to dispense a bottle of water (what?), but instead receives a sock on the nose. Literally.
Big Bug meets his new friends on Mars.
The team worked together for about three months, and as their manager, I can tell you they came a LONG way—we had moments when I worried they'd never come up with something aside from a Star Wars storyline, or would never reach a consensus. But they blew me away.
The team participated in a non-competitive category, and came home with certificates and medals. I was ill, and barely made it to the tournament, but was overcome by how well they did. I couldn't be more proud! Way to go, Team Dynaphoenix!

3/5/2011