Author Teaches Cliffwood Elementary How To Stop Bullying and Follow Dreams

When Jane Lovascio was a child, she remembers being bullied and feeling insecure.

Now, she helps children like her build self esteem with the help of her two dogs, Casey and Bella. Cartoon versions of Casey, a Jack Russell Terrier, and Bella, a Yorkie, star as the protagonists in her children's books, which children in 3rd, 4th and 5th grade help her write through a writing contest.

"It's a series for kids, by kids," said Lovascio. "It's to build their self esteem and show them they can be an author just like me."

Lovascio is also a motivational speaker who travels around with her books (and to the children's delight, photos and videos of Casey and Bella) to teach children how to follow their dreams, no matter how big or how small, and to remind them the importance of being kind to one another.

Lovascio brought her positive message to the students of on Dec. 13.

To get the children excited, Lovascio went around the room and asked students what they hope to be when they grow up. She then had all of the future princesses, monster truck drivers, teachers and scientists "close their eyes and visualize" their dreams coming true. 

"You can make your dreams come true if you follow three steps," Lovascio said to the students. They must believe in themselves, have a positive attitude and stay in school, she said.

An excited gasp swept across the crowd when the children learned Lovascio was giving each of them her email address so they could send her story ideas or share their dreams.

"I want them to know I believe in them," Lovascio said.