Author Archives: Jennie

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About Jennie

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.

The Best Christmas Ad – My Favorite

Posted on December 24, 2024 by Jennie

I will share this Christmas ad every year, because… it’s that good. Christmas is about family and friends. It’s a time to smile and remember. Yes, remember. Because in the end, it’s our memories that stick with us. That’s what … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Family, Inspiration, joy, Love, music, wonder | Tagged , , | 74 Comments

The Best Children’s Christmas Books – Annual Post

Posted on December 18, 2024 by Jennie

This is a repost of my favorite Christmas books.  Every year they grow stronger, because children love them.  These are the books children and adults want to read over and over again.  That’s why they’re the best.  Please, go to … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, children's books, Early Education, Imagination, Inspiration, literacy, picture books, reading, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , | 69 Comments

Army Navy – Why It’s the Greatest Game

Posted on December 15, 2024 by Jennie

This is a repost.  I couldn’t say it better, and it bears repeating.  Today’s game was equally exciting, and the 125th.   Today was the 122nd Army-Navy football game.  I watch it every year.  I am glued, because it is far … Continue reading →

Posted in America, Inspiration, military, patriotism | Tagged , , | 47 Comments

Mr. Rogers and Play – the Job of a Child – My Letter to Families

Posted on December 7, 2024 by Jennie

In the words of Mr. Rogers, a child’s job is to play.  It’s the basis for learning, ‘Life-101’ for young children.  Because play is so important, and complex, I needed to communicate this to my preschool families: This is the … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, Play, preschool, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , | 60 Comments

Mark Twain – Smile! Thank you Jaye and Anita.

Posted on December 6, 2024 by Jennie
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged | 16 Comments

Thanksgiving

Posted on November 28, 2024 by Jennie

Happy Thanksgiving Children spread happiness, naturally and genuinely. It’s a reminder for us. This post from a few years ago says it all. Our gigantic turkey From my school to your house, may you enjoy a turkey dinner with family … Continue reading →

Posted in America, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Kindness, preschool, Thanksgiving | Tagged , , | 69 Comments

Lost and Found!

Posted on November 19, 2024 by Jennie

‘Lost and Found’ is a story that has eclipsed most stories that have happened over the past 40 years.  Milly the Quilter and Gloria remain #1, and I’d be hard pressed to tell a story that is more meaningful than … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Early Education, Inspiration, preschool, young children | Tagged , , , | 75 Comments

General Z Mail!

Posted on November 12, 2024 by Jennie

Children pride themselves in writing and decorating giant thank you letters. Today we made a thank you letter for General Z. And today we received an ‘official’ letter from General Z with a two-star flag letterhead. Dear Ms. Fitzkee and … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, Giving thanks, Inspiration, military, patriotism, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 65 Comments

Thanking a Veteran

Posted on November 11, 2024 by Jennie

‘Thank You’ are the all-important words in life. They’re especially important on Veterans Day. Major General Z now retired visited my classroom. We wanted to thank him. Children were in awe. As soon as The General talked with children it … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, children's books, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, military, patriotism | Tagged , , , | 59 Comments

You Belong!

Posted on November 7, 2024 by Jennie

At school, we have a theme song each year.  This year it is “You Belong!”, a perfect song to let children know that – no matter what – we all belong.  It has become our ‘wake-up song’.  When nap is … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, Diversity, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Giving, Heart, Inspiration, Kindness, Quotes, self esteem, Singing, wonder | Tagged , , , | 72 Comments