Rocky the Writing Raccoon Gets Children Excited about Reading and Writing

Rocky the Writing Raccoon, a Mascot created by Facemakers Incorporated, has been generating tons of enthusiasm, getting children excited about reading and even writing their own books. A recent article in the Savanna Times-Journal tells the story:

WCPS students eagerly await Rocky's return Friday.

by JULIENE McCORMICK
WCPS 1st Grade Teacher

Rocky the Writing Raccoon returns to West Carroll Primary School this Friday, April 15. At 8:30, students will gather in the gym, anxiously awaiting his arrival.

Rocky will arrive by plane, of course, as he's been traveling great distances from the school, the past few months. He has been sight-seeing and word-searching around the world, gathering up words derived from the languages of the countries that he's visiting. He sends those words, via postcards, to the students, because increasing vocabulary skills is one of Rocky's goals for the children at West Carroll.

Rocky is a 6-foot 3-inch walking, running, writing, gray, furry raccoon. A "smartscot" that was created a few years ago, by Facemakers, Inc., in Savanna, an international costume design company. Rocky was generously gifted to the school, and with literacy coach Keta Foltz's enthusiasm, he has been motivating students at West Carroll Primary in their writing ever since.

No year has been more fun than this year, however. For example, Rocky recently sent a picture of himself standing before a landmark, in Hungary, where he went because we was "hungry". Before that he celebrated St. Patrick's Day in Ireland and next week, he'll end his travels in England, visiting the homeland of the author of The Tale of Peter Rabbit.

The students daily pass by a large display wall in the school, and observe the new "clues" about Rocky's next whereabouts. They are often heard dialoging their guesses about "Where in the world is Rocky now?"

But this Friday he returns and the students can't wait. The West Carroll Education Foundation (the organization that collects donations on behalf of the needs of the school children and who has gifted many educational materials for classroom use), has written to Rocky, urging him to return home. They're hoping he will assist with preparing the students' summer writing bags.

Another activity Rocky promoted at West Carroll during the year was "Wear-A-Word Day" on Oct. 31. For the first months of the year, students collected interesting words that they found at home.

After they wrote a definition and a sentence using the word, they sent it off to school. Then the words were placed on display in the cafeteria. Sometime before Halloween, the words were compiled and a list sent home to the parents. Students then chose a word to wear, and dressed up like a "word" instead of in a Halloween costume on Oct. 31!

Rocky has also become well-known throughout the state. He has made "spotlight" appearances at the Illinois Reading Conference the past three years, in Springfield. Foltz and her team of Amber Findlay, Christa Curley, and Janell Hartman have been presenters at the conference. They have noticed Rocky's popularity growing each year. This team of teachers has been invited by several different school districts to bring Rocky into their educational community, to share about his work of promoting and improving reading and writing literacy.

Authors of children's literature, who are featured guest speakers at the convention, have enjoyed meeting Rocky, too. Some of them are Craig Pierce, Gary Metivier, Mary Casanova and Tedd Arnold, to name a few. The website, http://www.writingrocky.com/ gives more information about the different Rocky activities.

There will be a lot of excitement in the gym at 8:30 a.m. Friday, April 15, at West Carroll Primary School. First grade students will be receiving a special Rocky bag that day which will be packed with different writing supplies and a bare book, ready and waiting to be written in, thanks to the Education Foundation.

Parents of first graders are invited to a Writing Open House immediately after school on Friday to "Build-A-Bag" for writing. Those students will then return to school next fall as second graders, ready to share their summer writing.

When Rocky isn't traveling around, he lives in the wooded area, behind the school. But the students just never know when he'll show up an be either reading their writing in the hallway, or stopping into their classroom for a quick write.

It could be that Rocky will even return with a little souvenir for each student. Hmmm, that writing raccoon is just always full of surprises.

How To Choose A Mascot Company

If you're considering investing in a mascot, the biggest question you probably have in mind is, what company should I purchase from??? A simple Google search provides endless options for companies that manufacture and sell mascot costumes. Here are some tips for determining which company to choose:

1. Ask if the costume company is the manufacturer of the mascot costumes or if they are just a reseller. It is better to go with a company that manufactures their costumes so you are working directly with the person creating the costume & you'll get exactly what you're looking for.

2. Consider their years of service as well as the range of services they offer. You want to go with a company that has proven itself over the years. Choose a mascot company that has been in the business for a good amount of time. Companies who have been working on costumes for longer have much more experience and you will get a better costume as well as better help and advice.

3. Check their client list. Most reliable mascot companies will have a client list posted on their website. Look for reputable clients and be sure they have an extensive list. Again, the more clients, the more experience. It would also be wise to request referrals to determine that they are a reputable company.

4. Ask if they guarantee satisfaction. A reputable company will. If not, DON'T BUY!! A company that doesn't guarantee satisfaction is obviously hiding something. A good mascot company should be confident enough with their costumes to guarantee your satisfaction!

5. Don't be afraid to ask your own questions! A good mascot company will answer all of the questions you have. They'll make your mascot purchase experience a much better, smoother process!

The mascot company that we have had the best luck with has been in the business for over 30 years. They have an extremely extensive client list of over 15,000 firms and always do an amazing job to accommodate our needs. They manufacture their costumes and they guarantee satisfaction. They even offer custom mascots! Click here to check out their website!

Mascot Rental

Not sure if you're willing to invest in a mascot costume yet? Why not try renting one?! Many people are hesitant in purchasing a mascot costume because they are unfamiliar with this type of costume. Since mascot costumes are much different than a typical Halloween costume, it may be a good idea to rent one so you can experiment with it and learn how they feel on, how you can use them for your event, etc.

This can also be a good way to determine what type of character would work for your situation if you're not quite sure yet. Perhaps you'll find that an animal you didn't expect to work ended up working great.

If you're interested in renting a mascot costume, click this link to go to the website of a company that has a good rental stock selection. The rental process is easy, so check it out!

Make Your Mascot Talk!

Typically, mascot performers shouldn't speak while in costume. The main reason for this is because it is very difficult for your voice to be heard. Even when you're speaking loudly, the size of the mascot head and the insulation from the foam, etc will prevent your voice from being heard. However, if you'd like your mascot character to be able to communicate with people, there is a solution! You can invest in a mascot amplification system!

There are some great compact amplification systems that you can get that will make it easy for your mascot character to speak with patrons. They come with a headset including a microphone. But if you choose to purchase an amplification system so your costumed actor can communicate, it would be smart to have them use a special, cartoony voice. If your character just sounds like a regular person, it will be very boring and ruin the illusion of the character. Click here to go to a website that has different amplification options to use with your mascot!

How To Properly Store A Mascot Costume

So you have a mascot but don't know how to store it? This is one of the most important things to think about if you want your mascot costume to last a long time! When not in use, a mascot costume should be stored in some sort of container. If you don't store it in something, the costume will be exposed to dirt, dust, water, etc.

It would be a smart idea to invest in a quality storage container to protect the mascot costume from the elements. There are many different options... The most inexpensive being a canvas bag- but remember, this is not the most protective option! You should seriously consider a more reliable storage container such as a plastic case or hard case. Some of these cases even come with wheels for easy transportation.

Click here to go to a site that offers a wide range of options for mascot storage. You'll be sure to find an option that will fit in your budget. We've had great luck dealing with this company and the cases are great!

Good Mascot Video!

This YouTube video has some great examples of how you should act in a mascot costume. Check it out to see some good examples of how to communicate with people while doing meet and greets.

Mascot Hydration

It’s officially summer and it is HOT outside! When wearing a mascot costume, it’s ALWAYS important to be well hydrated, but this is especially true when you will be outside during the hot, humid summer months. You should not only hydrate before going out in costume, but also during.

In order to remain hydrated throughout the day, you should create a schedule for your performer. For instance, the performer should have a set amount of time in costume and then get at least a 5-10 minute break to rehydrate. But remember, the performer’s break should occur away from the public. A mascot character should NEVER take off any part of their costume while in front of people. Be sure to have a designated break area where the public doesn’t have access and have plenty of water waiting for them.

There are also mascot cooling systems that hold water and have a tube that leads up to the performer’s mouth so they can drink water while wearing the costume. This will allow your performer to stay in costume for longer periods of time and will also keep your performer happy. Click here to be redirected to a site that offers a great mascot water cooling system.

Signing Autographs

While not necessary, having your mascot sign autographs is an added treat for children. In the eyes of a child, a mascot character is a big deal- basically a celebrity! They love to be able to take home any memory of their visit with the character, and what’s more personal than an autograph?! However, if you decide to have your mascot character sign autographs at events, it’s important that all actors who will wear the costume have identical signatures for the character.

First of all, the signature should not be a basic, plain old signature. Your mascot character is a larger than life cartoon- that is what the signature should portray as well. Make the signature fit your character in some way….if it’s a dog, perhaps it should incorporate a drawing of a paw, etc.

Once you come up with a creative signature, have all of the people who will be wearing the costume memorize the signature (and practice signing it with the costume on). Be sure they all look the same. That way, no matter who is wearing the costume, the autograph will always look the same. After all, there is only ONE character, right?! Imagine if a child got your mascot’s autograph at two different events and they looked nothing alike. That would ruin the illusion of the character.

Check out a couple examples of how to make creative autographs for your mascot:

Posing For Photographs With Mascots

One of the most common activities you will be doing while wearing a mascot costume is having your photograph taken. Children and even adults love to capture a memory with the character. While many would assume this would be a simple job that requires no preparation, they are incorrect. Sure, anyone can wear a mascot costume and simply stand in one spot and have people take photos with them, but that won’t portray any life in the photo.

You never see a Disney character simply standing with their arms at their side for a photograph. They always have some form of ‘movement’ or ‘life’ (ie: arm(s) in the air, foot out to the side, etc). This brings the photo to life and can transfer an emotion or mood through the photo.

Look at the photo we found online... simply waving creates life in the photo, or the mouse on the right has his hand up to his mouth which makes it seem as though the character is laughing!

These costumes can be purchased at this site

Practice different creative poses in front of a mirror and figure out what works best for you!

Mascot Preparation

If your school already has a costume, ask if you can use it to practice. It’s important to get a feel for what being in costume is actually like. It’s NOT the same as performing out of costume! It would also be smart to practice at whatever location the actual event will take place. This is important so you can get a feel for what the temperature will be like inside the costume. You’ll be surprised to find that even if you’re in an air conditioned arena or gym, you’ll still get very warm (especially if you’re being extra energetic like a good mascot should!)

You may find that the temperature inside the costume limits the amount of time you can stay in costume. If your costume doesn’t already have a cooling system, you should definitely look into investing in one. They are rather inexpensive and can extend the amount of time you’ll be able to perform in costume by at least 45 minutes! Not to mention, you’ll feel a million times more comfortable in the costume. This will reflect in your performance.

If you’re hot and uncomfortable in the costume, chances are, you won’t be overly energetic or in the mood to be jumping and running around getting the crowd pumped up. This site has a great selection of quality cooling systems that can be used. If you’re currently looking to invest in a new mascot costume, you can also purchase a costume that comes with a built in ventilation fan in the mascot head. This company has a large selection of ventilated mascot costumes.

Mascots Need To Do Their Research!!

Is this your first time wearing a mascot costume? Then you may want to do some research! Especially if you will be wearing the mascot costume for your school, you’ll want to find out what some of the previous mascots did and if they were successful. If you are unable to find those who wore the mascot costume previously, ask other people. If they attended games or special events, they may remember and be able to tell you how the mascots entertained the crowd.

Watch video of mascots in college and the pros! See what their routine is, how they manage to engage the crowd, and what makes them successful and entertaining. Youtube is a great resource, so use it to your advantage!

If you’ll be wearing the mascot costume for a school or university, chances are, you’ll be working with the school’s cheerleaders and pep band. Talk with both groups to see what kind of routines they are doing and if they’d be interested in doing any routines with the mascot. If nothing else, at least find out what songs the pep band will be playing so you can plan some routines yourself. Choreographed routines are always an added treat for spectators and add to the professionalism of your routine!

Mascots Should Use Their Surroundings!

Before wearing your mascot costume at a public event, you must become familiar with your surroundings. One reason, of course, is for your safety. When you wear the mascot costume, you’ll find that your vision will be very limited. Your peripheral vision will often times be nonexistent due to the large mascot head. Not only will your vision be limited, but your movement as well. Wearing the large costume, head and shoes will limit your movement. Of course, after a lot of practice and use of the costume, it will begin to feel like a second skin and feel natural for you- this is especially true if you are very familiar with the area you will be performing in.

You also want to become familiar with your surroundings so you know what kind of performance area you are working with. As we’ve discussed before, you need to be as animated and energetic as possible. If you are familiar with your surroundings, you’ll be able to locate surfaces that you could jump on to (and practice getting back down safely!). Utilizing multiple levels and constantly changing levels will give your mascot character more life and energy. It will also make you more entertaining.

Often times, you’ll find that the location you will be performing at doesn’t have any higher levels for you to utilize. If this is the case, you might want to consider creating your own- ie: wood boxes, steps, etc. If you do this, be sure that they are out of the way so the general public doesn’t get hurt.

Show Emotion INSIDE Your Mascot Costume!

A great tip that can help you show emotion in a mascot costume is to use facial expressions inside the costume even though no one can see your expressions. Practice facial expressions in front of a mirror for various emotions (happy, sad, excited, etc).

Once you figure out what your facial expressions would look like if you were mad, sad, happy, etc, translate that into your mascot head. Chances are, the face of your mascot head will not move, so you must find ways to use your body to show the same emotion.

However, making your facial expressions while wearing the costume will help you 'feel' the emotion you're trying to express. For example, if you're trying to make your mascot character look like they're sad, hang your head and slouch your shoulders. If you want to look fierce, jump onto a block and pound on your chest.

You'll be amazed at the difference it will make if you actually make the facial expressions while wearing the costume. This is just one more way for you to become the character!

Click Here To Check Out Some Great Mascot Costumes!

When Would I Use a Mascot?

When would your business or organization use a mascot costume?? The opportunities are ENDLESS!! Here are just SOME examples:

• - Parades
• - Festivals
• - Promotional events
• - Press Conferences
• - College visits
• - Sports events
• - Tv commercials
• - Sales
• - Charity events

The list goes on and on! So what are you waiting for?

Communicating in a Mascot Costume

Mascots should never speak! When the person wearing the costume speaks to patrons while wearing the mascot costume, it ruins the illusion for children. When you speak while wearing a mascot costume, your voice will be extremely muffled. Not only will it be hard to hear or understand what you’re saying, but it will also sound like a normal human being.

You must remember, children actually believe that the costume is an actual living character- not a person wearing a costume!! Also, in most cases, the same person will not be wearing the costume every single time. Each person who wears the costume will have a different voice.

Chances are, you will get at least a handful of children who will ask why the character won’t speak to them. If the mascot has a guide (which they should if they are doing a meet and greet!), the guide can give the child any number of answers (ie: his throat is sore from singing earlier that day, he’s saving his voice for the show, he’s shy, etc- be creative!).

It’s a good idea to have a written description of how your character acts. That way, every person who wears the costume will know exactly how they are supposed to act. For example, if your mascot is supposed to have a shy personality, you wouldn’t want one person to be jumping around and being outgoing and the next person in the costume being shy and playing the actual character. Consistency is key!

Mascots Make You Money!!

One of the most common uses for mascot costumes is for high school or college sports teams. However, businesses are using mascot characters more and more in their marketing plans. But why? Because they WORK!

Businesses use mascot costumes for many reasons. First of all, they are a perfect way to promote a company, product, or event. Utilizing a mascot costume creates an association for the public. When they need a product, the memory of the mascot will help bring the marketing campaign back to mind during the purchasing process. According to the article “Use of Mascots” by Amy Nutt, “Many tout mascots as being the best choice for placing funds for marketing. Experts say it will yield the best rate of return for the investment placed in a mascot.”

Mascots can be especially helpful in promoting a new business. If your business is new, you have to set yourself apart from the competition and create an image for yourself. What will you remember more? A company who has a businessman hand you a promotional pen or a mascot character handing you a pen? Chances are, you’ll remember the latter.

Still aren’t convinced you should invest in a mascot costume for your business? Think about all of the successful businesses currently utilizing mascot characters… Disney, Universal Studios, Kellog’s (Tony the Tiger, Toucan Sam, Snap Crackle & Pop, Etc), Sony, Best Buy, etc etc. The list goes on and on! Do you really think so many successful companies would use mascot costumes if they didn’t KNOW that they worked? I don’t think so! So what are you waiting for?! Get a committee together and start brainstorming what mascot character you could use! Not sure which mascot company to trust with this investment? Check out this website! They make amazing costumes and you’ll definitely be happy with the finished product!

Fun Facts About Mascot Costumes

Check out this short article from RealSimple Magazine with some fun facts about mascot costumes! Click here

Be Careful Wearing A Mascot Costume!!

As we've discussed before, wearing a mascot costume is very different than moving around in everyday life. Mascot costumes restrict movement as well as vision. This is why it's important to practice your routines before going out for a 'performance' as well as being completely aware of your surroundings. When possible, always have someone who's not wearing a costumes act as your guide so they can prevent bad things from happening. This is very important- just watch this video and see for yourself!

Why Do High School & College Teams Have Mascots?

What’s the point in investing in a team mascot for a high school or college? Well- there are many. First of all, the mascot can be used for many events to identify the school. Even schools have a brand and need to get their name out to the public. Utilizing a mascot will help draw attention as well as identify the school.

Mascots are great for game day as well because they keep the energy level high. Teams play better when they’re being cheered on. It keeps the adrenaline pumping. Having a very animated, energetic mascot can keep the spectators excited, get fans yelling, jumping, screaming and cheering the team to victory.

You can have a custom mascot costume designed for your school or university, or, you can have a standard character that is offered by the mascot company modified. Modifying an already existing character results in huge savings. You can have a standard costume’s colors changed or even get as elaborate as reworking the facial features to resemble your pre-existing character’s design. This company offers standard mascot costume character modification and the savings are tremendous!

Custom Mascot Costumes

So your company or organization has decided to look into investing in a mascot costume? What kind of mascot should you get? There are tons of mascot costumes available online, but do none of them fit your company or organization’s image? Did you know you can have CUSTOM mascot costumes created?!

If you currently have a character or logo for your business or organization, you can have that character or logo reproduced as a mascot costume! Only the top mascot costume companies manufacture custom mascot costumes.

It’s important that you don’t just shop around for the cheapest custom costume- be sure to look at images of custom mascot costumes that the company has created for other clients. After all, you want to be sure to get an accurate representation of your character or logo to be properly identified by your audience. Nothing would be worse than to invest in a custom mascot costume only to find that it looks nothing like you imagined and won’t identify with your company or organization.

When purchasing a mascot costume, you should seriously consider going with a custom designed costume. Having a custom costume designed means you will be the ONLY company or organization using it! Sure, you could use a stock mascot, but why not go the extra mile and really set yourself apart from the competition! This mascot company does a great deal of custom mascot business. Check out their client list and you’ll see they’re obviously one of the top in the business! We’ve had custom mascot costumes made by them and they’re amazing!