Your School Could WIN a Free Skype Visit with Inspirational Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog

Skype visit with school in Illinois last spring

Oh so easy to enter!  All you have to do is let your child's (or grandchild's) school teacher or librarian know we are giving away a FREE Skype presentation with Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog (you can do that by forwarding this post along with a personal note).  Then all the teacher or librarian needs to do is email us with this note in the body of email: Our school would love to win a free Skype presentation with Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog! Please include contact name, school name, address, phone and email. Send email to barb at joyfulpaws dot com. Teachers/librarians can enter through midnight September 14, 2011 .Winner will be chosen at random and notified on Thursday, September 15.  Skype presentation will need to be scheduled no later than May 30, 2012. Open to schools in US and Canada. For more information on our Skype presentations check out our free Skype ebook on planning a Skype visit with us. Frankie will inspire and uplift your students to be the best they can be!!   The students had such a great time during their webcam visit with Mrs. Techel and Frankie.  They were even more inspiring in person.  Mrs. Techel had Frankie right there with her during our web cam visit.  Frankie even fell asleep on her desk.  She showed the class how Frankie got in and out of her wheelchair, explained how she cared for Frankie, gave us a first hand view of her writing studio, and explained the writing process from the gathering of ideas, to the editing, and the publishing stages. ~Karen Elz, 3rd grade elementary teacher,  Shiloh Point Elementary School, Georgia

Authors & Technology, The Future Is Now- Blog Talk Radio

Join my author mom, Barbara Techel on Monday, August 1st, 2011 as Dr. Barbara Holstein interviews her about our success in sharing our books and message of hope with classrooms across the US and Canada via Skype.

This show invites experts intechnology to discuss the future, which is happening now. 

In this show Barbara Techel, award-winning author of the Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog book series will be sharing how she has used technology such as Skype, and how you can too!. She has shared her story of hope and inspiration about her dachshund, Frankie, who is in a wheelchair, with thousands of children and adults since 2007. To date they have made over 300 appearances in Wisconsin and many more via Skype to classrooms across the US and Canada. Barbara is also a speaker and publisher. Barbara and Frankie are avid volunteers as a therapy dog team. They routinely visit a local hospice community, hospital and senior assisted living facility, where they “walk their talk” about the inspirational nature of perseverance in the face of challenge

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Remember, authors will be virtually entering schools, libraries, book clubs, businesses, etc. beyond our wildest dreams.  They will be using Skype and other means to reach people around the world, including e-books, webinars, teleclasses and processes that have yet to materialize. 

Authors need to be ready, as the future is now.  Please join us

John L. Hensey Students Meet Frankie & Favorite Author Via Skype

My mom (award-winning author, Barbara Techel) and I were so excited to meet with Mrs. Burd's early childhood class recently and I didn't even have to leave the comfort of my home... we were able to meet via the wonderful technology of Skype!  The full story is below from the Washington Times Reporter by Brandon Schatsick.

Photo by Washington Times

Students in Kim Burd’s class at John L. Hensey School were able to meet face-to-face with the author of one of their favorite books who lives in Wisconsin April 7; nevermind the fact that they met with more than 150 miles separating them.

Burd’s early childhood class recently finished reading “Frankie: The Walk ‘n Roll Dog” about a miniature dachshund who ruptured a disk in her back, becoming permanently paralyzed in that area. Frankie’s owner and author of the book, Barbara Techel found a dog cart for Frankie and decided to chronicle the every day life of a dog in said cart.

“It’s about a real animal with real challenges ... the message is about never giving up and you have to put your best paw forward,” Burd said. 

The class was able to meet with Techel and Frankie through the class’ new interactive board from PolyVision and a computer program called Skype. 

Burd said it was all thanks to a grant that allows schools to implement new technology in the classroom.

“I just got this technology in my room and for me to be able to learn that with the children ... they loved seeing everything very big on the wall,” Burd said of the projected Techel holding Frankie on the other end of the connection. “They wanted to go up and pet Frankie like she was actually there.” 

Frankie, a trained therapy dog, often accompanies Techel as they visit hospitals and schools to teach people about overcoming challenges. Although Techel couldn’t make it to Washington, Burd, who uses Techel’s website www.joyfulpaws.com for teaching assistance with the book, thought it would be worth a shot to see if the two of them could set up a Skype date.

“Isn’t this great?” Techel said to the class, referring to the Internet meeting. “With Frankie being in a wheelchair ... and Frankie’s almost 12 years old, for me to travel with her it’s not necessarily a good thing because I don’t want to over-stress her ... I’m so glad we can meet kids like you via Skype.”

“She provides (lesson plans, etc.) for teachers to use her book as a learning tool ... she’s made it very fun to want to do this as a teacher with the kids and all of the positive things you can teach them (through Frankie’s story),” Burd said. “(Meeting with her via Skype) was just the icing on the cake.”

During the meeting, kids asked questions about where Frankie sleeps (in bed with Techel and her husband), if his cart works in the grass (it works rather well actually, Techel said) and they showed her pictures they colored of Frankie..

Photo by Washington Times

“That looks like Frankie; you got the colors right and everything,” Techel said upon seeing them on her computer screen. 

Techel then had a fashion show with Frankie putting on a couple of her favorite hats including a cowgirl hat, biker helmet and floppy summer hat.

“We’ve done all kinds of neat things, but to be able to visit with someone like that and make it a lesson, was very powerful to see that.”

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Teachers!  If you are interested in having me and my author Mom, Barbara Techel, visit your classroom via Skype check out our free downloadable Skype e-book to help you plan a visit with us!  We'd love to meet you and your students.

Poems Written for Frankie and Sparkles

If a dog could shed tears, I'd have cried a bucket full!  And just so you know they would have been happy tears, not sad ones.
After Sparkles and I visited with a school in western Canada via Skype, their teacher sent us poems they wrote about us.  Our little hearts melted.  Here is one example of a poem... and you can read the rest at our special blog, Frankie and Sparkles.  A big tail wag to all the special writer's for sharing your poems.

Teachers & Students love Skype Visits with Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog

What fun my mom and I are having sharing our message of hope and inspiration and meeting so many different teachers and students around the world, and all with the help of the Internet.
We have used Skype, but also worked with video conferencing that schools have in-house.  It is a dog-gone amazing way to meet wonderful kids from all over the US and Canada.  You inspire US!
Check out below what teachers are saying about the experience!  If you would like more information please visit our special teacher section on our website.  We would love to meet you and your students virtually!

Students at my school in Canada used Skype to connect via the Internet with Barbara and Frankie who live in Wisconsin. The students were so excited and amazed at the experience. It seemed as if Frankie and Barbara were sitting right in their classroom!

The students were able to interact with Frankie and Barbara. They asked many thought provoking questions. They learned a lot about animals with disabilities and how to stay positive no matter what challenges they might face. The Skype has been their favorite part of the school year! ~Karen Keys, Teacher Librarian Canada

I was apprehensive about the vist, but it was tremendous. I wondered if 500+ children would be able to attend to the screen and realize they were having a conversation with an author. You did it! They stayed on task for the entire visit. The variety of activity--your talking, the Powerpoint, the video and Frankie's presence all worked together to keep them engaged. Thank you-- you made me look good! ~Kathy Howell, library media specialist, Clarksville Primary School, Arkansas

The students had such a great time during their webcam visit with Mrs. Techel and Frankie. They were even more inspiring in person. Mrs. Techel had Frankie right there with her during our web cam visit. Frankie even fell asleep on her desk. She showed the class how Frankie got in and out of her wheelchair, explained how she cared for Frankie, gave us a first hand view of her writing studio, and explained the writing process from the gathering of ideas, to the editing, and the publishing stages. ~Karen Elz, 3rd grade elementary teacher, Shiloh Point Elementary School, Georgia

Through the magic of technology we were able to host Barb & Frankie for an in-class(ish) presentation via Skype. Barb was able to take the kids through the notion of overcoming challenges, making a difference in the lives of others, and facing hardship in a positive, life-changing way. They were CAPTIVATED which is a pretty big deal for six-year-olds. ~Ben Bordeau, Who's Your Dachshund blogger and Jason Wade, 1st grade teacher, Bicentennial School, Canada

Virtual Visit with Bicentennial Elementary School First Graders

So here's how it works on my end:  Mom sets her laptop on a TV tray in front of her desk.  She clears her desk to make room for me and my wheel's.  Just as we call in for the virtual visit call with school, she sets me on top of the desk in my wheels!  Ok, so how many dogs can say they get to stand on top of a desk?  Arf!
It works so cool!  So kids around the world can see me and I never leave the comfort of my home... and when we are done with our presentation, teaching kids all sorts of good stuff about overcoming challenges, my mom takes me out of my wheels and let's me rest in my periwinkle bed in front of the fireplace.  It's a dog's life and I love it.

Read all about our special day with Mr. Wade and his first grade class at Bicentennial School in eastern Canada.  Who's Your Dachshund blogger, Ben was in Mr. Wade's room as this fun hour unfolded.  He titled his post, "Therapy Dog Gone Digital" and I thought that was so dog-gone catchy!

Video Footage of Frankie and Sparkles Historic Day!

Sparkles and I had one of the best days ever in dog history when we were able to meet because of the help of Skype... we were tail-waggin excited to share our messages of never giving up hope, overcoming challenges and fire safety with all of the kids from Clarksville Primary School in Arkansas.  Teachers, kids and even the principal just loved it!  Arf-a-roo!!

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Frankie and Sparkles Make History!

It is a day I will never forget!  Read the full press release below... and be sure to check out my new blog with Sparkles... Frankie and Sparkles for upcoming, fun projects we two canine friends will be doing together!

Canine Friends Visit via Skype to Make History


Author Barbara Techel and her paralyzed dog, Frankie, along with Author Firefighter Dayna Hilton and her dog, Sparkles the Fire Safety Dog, came together today via the internet to educate children about disabilities and fire safety.

Clarksville, AR- Two educators of the four-legged variety from different parts of the country, came together today to share fire safety with the children of Clarksville Primary School.

The first presentation of its kind in the country, Frankie, the Walk ‘N Roll Dog from Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, and Sparkles the Fire Safety Dog from Clarksville, Arkansas, along with a little support from their human friends, children's authors, Barbara Techel and Firefighter Dayna Hilton, participated in this historic event. The four participated in a Skype visit, sharing the importance of fire safety and encouraging children who may have family or friends with physical challenges to help them have a plan, among other fire safety messages, so they and their families and friends can help stay safe from fire.

500 plus children sat glued to their seats as they listened intently as Frankie and Barbara shared their story of inspiration and hope. The students clapped and cheered loudly when Frankie and Sparkles met virtually for the first time. Kathy Howell, library media specialist for the school, was not sure initially how the visit via Skype would go as the school had never participated in one before. Excited about the end result, Howell stated, “The presentation was tremendous, and the excitement from the children continued throughout the day.”

“It was cool watching Frankie and Sparkles make history,” said one six year old student.

With the help of their new four-legged friends, Frankie and Sparkles, the children of Clarksville Primary School now have the tools necessary to stay safe, be positive, and keep on rolling.

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History of Frankie and Sparkles’ first Skype visit:

Techel, one of the pioneers of Skype author visits, met Hilton over Facebook and the two developed a unique fire safety program for schools, with a little help from Frankie and Sparkles. The two plan to bring Sparkles and Frankie together again with their messages in future Skype visits, so more children across the country will benefit.

About Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog:

Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog, is a dachshund who suffered a debilitating spinal injury and now walks with the aid of a doggie wheelchair. For the past two years, Frankie has been helping children of all ages realize that their challenges can be overcome by having a positive attitude, and despite these challenges, they can be a contributing member of society in their own unique way. Frankie is the mascot for National Disabled Pets Day and is the 2009 Wisconsin Pet Hall of Fame Companion Dog. Frankie’s motto is, “Always be positive, make a difference, and keep on rolling!”

About Sparkles the Fire Safety Dog:

Sparkles the Fire Safety Dog, a Dalmatian who was rescued from a home with 62 other dogs, travels across the country with Firefighter Dayna educating children and their caregivers about fire safety. Sparkles has helped deliver fire safety tips on PBS KIDS Sprout, reaching millions of children and their caregivers nationwide. To date, Sparkles has been credited with helping save the lives of two children and their two families.

To learn more about Frankie and Sparkles and their upcoming projects, please visit their website at www.frankieandsparkles.com

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NEW! Author Visits EBook Guide for All Teachers

Calling all teacehrs!!  Mom and I want to make planning a visit with us easy, whether virtually or in person (and dog!), because we know how hard teachers work.  So we came up with an idea... ok, well, my mom did.  We now have a Author Visits Ebook guide to planning a successful visit with us.  It is yours for free by visiting our new teacher section on our website.  Just click and download... then feel free to give us a call or email us to book your visit with us.

REMEMBER:  We are giving away 10-free Skype presentations (or other video conferencing if you prefer) to the first schools that contact us (one per school).  Hurry, before they are all gone!

Kids Share their Thoughts from Virtual Visit with Frankie

My friends in Canada shared these super fun thoughts after I visited with them via Skype last week... they posted this on their blog also, but I was so proud I wanted to share on my blog too!

"I really liked when you told us that there is always a blessing in something bad that happens. It was also cool when you showed us how to put Frankie in her wheels." Ashlea Age 9"

I really enjoyed when I got to ask questions! I was very excited when I got to ask my question. Frankie must be a truly happy dog" Amanpreet, Age 9 "

Our Skype was so fun! I really like when Frankie put on her life jacket for the bathtub. I also liked her train costume. I really liked learning more about Frankie" Josh, Age 9"

My favourite part was when we found out what it was like to have a disability. I enjoyed talking to you and Frankie. I really liked the video of her walking. I think she should be in the Olympics." Cassie Age 9"

Our Skype experience was amazing. I liked learning about Frankie. Frankie looked cute in her costume." Stephanie Age 9"

I really liked how we got to Skype with you and Frankie. It was a great experience seeing Frankie. Thank you once more for choosing our class. That was very exciting. I loved it!" Jazzie Age 9"

Our Skype experience was so fun! It was so cool how we learned so much about Frankie!" Dakota Age 9"

I really enjoyed Skyping with Frankie and Barb. I really liked when Frankie was in the Pet Hall of Fame because I never thought that any kind of pet could actually be in the Pet Hall of Fame! Thank you Barb for skyping. I really really liked it!" Rachel Age 9"

My class and I loved the picture of Frankie and Kylie cuddled up together. We were amazed by the book you read us!" Brandon Age 8"

My favourite part was talking to you and Frankie and have a great experience with you. I loved learning about how Frankie got hurt." Aly Age 9

Meet Frankie LIVE on the Internet- Virtual Visits Now Available

GIVE CHILDREN THE GIFT OF POSSIBILITY
**Inspire them to look past what may be considered misfortunes
**Teach them to face challenges head on
**Give them hope that no matter what, all things are possible

Official Mascot for National Disabled Pets Day & Hall of Fame Companion, Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Dog will leave an everlasting and loving paw print on their heart

My mom and I are asking for your help. It really is quite easy to do… and for helping us we have a free gift for you (keep reading for details).

We are now offering Virtual Visits with me, Frankie, the Walk ‘N Roll Dog! We are now able to do our Frankie presentations that we currently offer to our local schools in person (and rolling dog!) via the free software of Skype and a web cam, but these are done… well, virtually!! Here is a video clip explaining.


Would you be willing to forward this message to any elementary teachers or librarians you know? We would certainly appreciate your efforts. Just email us that you forwarded it and we will send you a link to download Frankie’s Activity E-book for free!

Please be sure to share with any teachers or librarians that you do forward this to that the first one to contact us will receive their Virtual Visit for FREE!

Check out this resource on how to set up a Virtual Visit...

Thank you so much for your help and for helping us spread my message of hope and inspiration!

Coming Soon!! Virtual Classroom Visits with Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Dog!

Ok, so I don't know alot about technology, but my mom tells me that we will soon be offering Skype presentations to schools! Wow, can you believe it? It is the newest, and up to date way of bringing an author (and rolling dog!) into your classroom! So be sure to tell your teachers you want to see me, the rolling dog, on the overhead screen or Smartboard in your classroom. It will be so much fun to meet new kids across the country and share my message of hope and inspiration!

Click here to read what Karen Keys, District Media Specialist for school in Canada, had to say about our pilot Skype session with her students.

So be sure and stay tuned to my blog for our big launch or sign up for my updates on our website! Arf-a-roo! Can't wait to meet all of you soon!!

Visiting Canada

Question submitted by Jordan, age 10

Can you and your mom come to our school one day?

Well, Jordan, you never do know! We certainly won't rule it out. Visiting schools is very fun for me and I hope to do more Skype sessions like I did with your school. That was way cool! I got to see all of you in Canada via the computer, but then I got to take a nap right afterwards. Dosen't get any better than that!