Helping Kids Make Their Mark – How The Dot Book Inspired S&S

When our Co-CEO Hy recently came across The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds, it sparked something that resonated not just with him, but across our entire company. The book’s message is simple: make a mark and see where it takes you. But behind that simplicity is a powerful truth about creativity, courage, and the ripple effect of encouragement. 

At S&S Worldwide, we’ve spent decades supporting schools, camps, afterschool programs, and community organizations like the YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs. We provide tools and supplies, but more than that, we strive to champion creativity, connection, and confidence in kids. That’s why The Dot felt so personal to us. 

It tells the story of Vashti, a girl who insists she can’t draw - until a teacher encourages her to just try. What follows is a journey of self-discovery, bravery, and expression through art. And isn’t that what we all want for kids? The chance to try something new without fear. To discover that creativity isn’t about doing it “right,” but about doing it your way. Even a single dot has meaning. 

That message goes beyond art - it’s about growth mindset, about having the courage to start, and about the mentors who help us believe in ourselves. We see it echoed every day in the classrooms, programs, and camps we serve. And we believe every child deserves the chance to experience that spark. 

“When I read The Dot, I immediately thought about the millions of kids our customers serve every year,” said Hy Schwartz, Co-CEO of S&S Worldwide. “It’s a beautiful reminder that creativity begins with courage, and that the right encouragement can change the trajectory of a child’s life. That’s something we’re proud to support.” 

When we learned about International Dot Day and saw how communities around the world were using The Dot to inspire self-expression, it felt natural to help others bring that experience to life. So the idea came about to create a Dot Day Activity Pack, an exclusively curated collection of items that makes it easy for educators and youth leaders to host their own celebration. The pack includes hands-on, open-ended art projects for 100 or more kids, all designed to help students “make their mark” and explore their creativity in meaningful ways. It includes enough supplies to make over 300 individual pieces of art! 

It’s not about creating perfect dots. It’s about making space for expression, exploration, and joy. 

We’re incredibly grateful to be working alongside Paul Reynolds, Co-CEO of FableVision and the Reynolds Center TLC, whose leadership continues to support creative education in powerful ways. And of course, we’re continually inspired by Peter H. Reynolds, the author and illustrator whose story sparked a global movement of courage and self-expression. 

At the heart of it all is the same encouragement Vashti received: “Just make a mark and see where it takes you.”