One Simple Question Started Hundreds of Conversations
Last Thursday, I spent the day speaking with people waiting in line for Catch the Ace at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 62 in Sarnia.
As temperatures climbed, I asked one simple question:
“Do you have kids or grandkids?”
That single question opened the door to dozens of meaningful conversations with parents, grandparents, educators, and community members about Common Sense Factor Kids—a practical life skills educational series created right here in Sarnia.
1.Practical Life Skills That Last a Lifetime
One topic came up again and again.
People liked the idea of helping children learn practical life skills through engaging colouring and activity books.
When I explained that Home Awareness is only the first book in a growing series, many people became even more interested. Future titles will introduce children to topics including:
Fire Safety
Skilled Trades Awareness
Financial Literacy
Healthy Living
Community Awareness
Nature Awareness
Senior Safety
The enthusiasm confirmed something I’ve believed for a long time: practical life skills are just as important as academic learning.
2. Conversations That Matter
One thing became very clear throughout the day.
While I was excited to introduce Common Sense Factor Kids, I quickly realized something important. People don’t just want to hear about a new educational resource—they want to hold it, flip through the pages, and experience it for themselves.
That was a valuable lesson, and one I’m grateful to have learned early.
It reminded me that educational books are different from many other products. Parents, grandparents, and educators naturally want to see the activities, understand the approach, and imagine how the children in their lives will enjoy learning from them.
Those conversations have already influenced how I’ll approach future community events, ensuring families have the opportunity to explore the books firsthand before making a decision.
3. One Book. Two Good Outcomes
The day also reinforced why our Community Campaign matters.
For every Common Sense Factor Kids Home Awareness book purchased during the current campaign, $1 is allocated to participating local community organizations serving Sarnia-Lambton.
The goal is simple:
Every book helps children build practical life skills while also supporting organizations that strengthen our community.
4. Thank You, Sarnia
To everyone who stopped for a conversation on Thursday, thank you.
Whether you shared an idea, asked a question, or simply offered encouragement, your feedback was appreciated.
Common Sense Factor Kids continues to grow because of conversations like these, and I’m excited to keep building educational resources that help children, families, educators, and our community learn together.
If you’d like to learn more, explore the Home Awareness book, or download free educational activities, visit csfactorkids.com.
Thank you for being part of this journey. I truly appreciate your support, and I look forward to seeing many of you again next Thursday at Catch the Ace. Best of luck to everyone!
