American Girl has introduced the newest Doll of the Year. Saige Copeland is guaranteed to be a hit with girls everywhere. This year American Girl is featuring a girl who is dedicated to the arts and her passion for horses. Saige’s story takes place in New Mexico (the hot-air balloon capitol of the world!) where rides horses on her grandmother’s ranch and uses her talents to rally her community when the arts program is cut at her school. She has beautiful red hair; sweet freckles and is the first doll to come with her ears pierced. Saige finds a way to bring her community together when the arts program is cut from her school and learns that her own talents and dedication can move mountains.
Saige, a creative and outgoing student shows girls that no matter what your age is, you can make a difference in your community. The Saige doll will be followed up with a series of books written by Jessie Hass. Hass grew up on a farm in Vermont riding horses and was able to portray Saige’s passion for horses based on her real life experiences. The series of books will include Saige and Saige Paints the Sky.
In addition to the series of books about Saige, American Girl has also released Express Yourself: Use Art to Explore the Emotions Inside You. This interactive books encourages girls to find ways to address their thoughts and emotions with creativity. This book is a great way for girls to get in touch with her own emotions and give parents a great way to relate to their daughters and explore the book together.
With the introductation of Saige Copeland, American Girl has launched several initiatives to support the arts in communities across the United States.
· Elevate the Arts School Grant: This grant offers elementary art teachers a chance to win one of thirteen $45,000 grants.
· Soar with Saige Sweepstakes: Girls are encouraged to share their artistic talents and download a balloon template and create their own design. All of the entries will be included in a hot-air balloon mosaic and will automatically be entered to win one of ten prizes
· Saige Learning Guide: Americans for Arts and American Girl have produced a free curriculum that can be downloaded and used with students in grades 3-6. The curriculum will help students explore their own creativity through the use of their imaginations. There are activities for parents also.
· Saige Retail Events: If you are planning a visit to an American Girl location, make sure you check ahead for several Saige related events including free crafts, photo opps and more!
The story that is created for Saige offers schools and families a chance to get children engaged in the arts! You can learn more about Saige, her story and order her on American Girl’s retail site.
