“Goodnight Moon” keeps growing and evolving. Children have heard the words over and over again, a beloved daily ritual before chapter reading. Recently they have joined me in reciting the entire book. The Helper of the Day can stand alongside me to recite the book, or do it on their own (with help.)
Today Winn was the Helper of the Day. He stood tall and proud, and belted out “Goodnight Moon” like he was the last man standing. I was humbled. He nailed it.
Never underestimate children. They have far more heart, gut, passion, and bravery than we realize. Give children opportunities. Let them shine. Read aloud. They’re our future. Winn certainly is.
I have been teaching preschool for over forty years. This is my passion. I believe that children have a voice, and that is the catalyst to enhance or even change the learning experience. Emergent curriculum opens young minds. It's the little things that happen in the classroom that are most important and exciting. That's what I write about.
I was a live guest on the Kelly Clarkson Show. I am highlighted in the seventh edition of Jim Trelease's million-copy bestselling book, "The Read-Aloud Handbook" because of my reading to children. My class has designed quilts that hang as permanent displays at the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia, the Fisher House at the Boston VA Hospital, and the Massachusetts State House in Boston.
Yes. Let us not underestimate these wonderful beings. I love Winn’s arm movements while reciting. A child was doing the exact same thing during class yesterday; so we all did it together for a while during one song…
Thank you for rememberin your advices, Jennie! Its so true, without trusting in the younger ones, we sparely can hope for a good future. Best wishes, Michael
I think you know by now that we share similar philosophies about this, Jennie. I’m a huge proponent of giving children safe public speaking opportunities. You are helping Winn and other students like him to become successful, feel confident, and be more likely to try this in the future. Yeah for Goodnight Moon as the vehicle to help children get there.
Yes, we absolutely share the same philosophies. Give a child a chance to shine should be every teacher’s mantra. Here’s proof: Winn is only three-years-old, yet he surprised us with his gut and determination. On the other hand, the child who is a leader, sometimes bossy, could not recite “Goodnight Moon” alone. As much as she wanted to, she asked for my help many times.
It never occurred to Winn to ask for help. Thank goodness reciting Goodnight Moon gave him the opportunity to shine.
Oh my! He’s so stinkin’ CUTE!! I love the way he slaps his arms and hands…relieving tension perhaps while he’s on stage. 😀 Thanks for the big smile this morning, Jennie!
A Teacher's Reflections 
❤️
Reblogged this on Love and Love Alone.
Thank you.
Yes. Let us not underestimate these wonderful beings. I love Winn’s arm movements while reciting. A child was doing the exact same thing during class yesterday; so we all did it together for a while during one song…
I loved his arms! They kept the beat of his chant. If we had been up and not on our nap mats, we may have copied him, too. Thank you, Will.
Thank you for rememberin your advices, Jennie! Its so true, without trusting in the younger ones, we sparely can hope for a good future. Best wishes, Michael
Hear, hear!
😉
Bravo, Winn! Applause, applause!!
Yes! 😀
If only we could keep that spirit of a child alive into adulthood. Unfortunately life too often makes us jaded. Maybe your kids will keep it.
Yes, if only… I will forever be one who fans that childhood spirit.
Well done to Winn. And he timed his recital with his arm movements too. 🙂
Best wishes, Pete.
He did! Sure made my day. Thanks, Pete.
That’s so sweet!
Thank you, Dan. It made my day!
Sooo sweet and awesome
It was! Thank you.
Wonderful, Winn! ❤
It was a precious moment. Thank you, Bette! 🥰
So sweet!
Thank you, Anneli! 😊
Bravo Winn! He’s quite the storyteller and his arm movements are priceless.☺️
He certainly is! I wish you had been there, Kim. 🥰
Me too!
😍
Oh, this is lovely!
Thank you, Ritu. It made my day. I was lucky to capture some of it on video. 😍
🥰
That is just so adorable. The enthusiasm is contagious.
You are so right, Darlene. Thank you!
Good for Winn
Yes! 😀
Clearly a rap poet in training. He has the rhythm and arm movements perfectly coordinated with text. On to a poetry slam with Winn.
You are spot on!
So sweet!
Yes! Made my day.
I think you know by now that we share similar philosophies about this, Jennie. I’m a huge proponent of giving children safe public speaking opportunities. You are helping Winn and other students like him to become successful, feel confident, and be more likely to try this in the future. Yeah for Goodnight Moon as the vehicle to help children get there.
Yes, we absolutely share the same philosophies. Give a child a chance to shine should be every teacher’s mantra. Here’s proof: Winn is only three-years-old, yet he surprised us with his gut and determination. On the other hand, the child who is a leader, sometimes bossy, could not recite “Goodnight Moon” alone. As much as she wanted to, she asked for my help many times.
It never occurred to Winn to ask for help. Thank goodness reciting Goodnight Moon gave him the opportunity to shine.
I couldn’t have said it better, Jennie.
😀
Winn is adorable, Jennie. What a lovely song.
Thank you, Robbie.
Jennie, I’m in awe of the level of inspiration you impart to these children. The video is adorable. I’m so glad you included it. Hugs on the wing.
Aww…thanks so much, Teagan! 🥰
Oh my! He’s so stinkin’ CUTE!! I love the way he slaps his arms and hands…relieving tension perhaps while he’s on stage. 😀 Thanks for the big smile this morning, Jennie!
He was (and is) adorable. Who knew that the quiet and young one would belt it out? All of the older children have needed me to help them. Not Winn!
🥰
Great read thankk you
Thank you.