Adding Bling

Bling is good in small doses! Just be sure not to overdo it. Also be aware that when these sites "host" your video or slide show, they can sometimes be busy and make it appear as if there is a bad link, or format that isn't working.

1. RockYou Text effects
   http://www.rockyou.com/fxtext/fxtext-create.php?ref=front
   Sparlkes, bevels, colors, etc. to make banners or headings.
   
   
2. RockYou Photo FX
   http://www.rockyou.com/photofx/create.php?ref=front
   add sparkles, etc to photos.
   
   
3. RockYou Slideshow
   http://www.rockyou.com/slideshow-create.php?source=fpcws
   Create a slide show with your picture and add music
   
   
4. PhotoPeach
   http://photopeach.com/home
   Similar to Rock You in that you have a video like slideshow made from photos

Animation tools

If you've seen Flash animations, but the program is not in your budget, there are a few free alternatives.

1. Pivot stick animator - (Windows Only)
   http://psfao.com/
   This free software download is a great asset to any classroom. Though it does use stick figures, creative students can do great things. Animations are saved as animated gifs. Hint: do not start with a very large background, or the animation size will be too big.
   
   
2. Flashberry.com (Windows only)
   http://www.flashberry.com/
   Free flash intros - but must use IE browser to create
   
   
3. Scratch - (Windows or Mac - download program and work offline - available in many languages
   http://scratch.mit.edu/
   Create your own interactive stories, animations, games, music, art. This is a full program with a bit of a learning curve, but also lots of help online. For more see their info for educators page.