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.

Something to Think About – The R’s of Life – #Respect in our modern world by Sally Cronin

Posted on January 18, 2019 by Jennie

Respect is fundamental, and the root of how we grow. Lack of respect appears to be far too common and is eating away at the culture of humanity. I am all too aware of how behaviors have far reaching effects, … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | 20 Comments

another july.

Posted on January 16, 2019 by Jennie

Originally posted on I didn't have my glasses on….:
I didn't have my glasses on…. View original post

Posted in Uncategorized | 22 Comments

Library Book Bears… and Bob

Posted on January 14, 2019 by Jennie

Book Bears is my library reading group.  These second and third graders read a book each month, and we have a discussion about the book.  We talk about everything.  Everything! Let me tell you, this group is terrific.  Everyone is … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, books, chapter reading, children's books, Early Education, Imagination, Inspiration, reading aloud, reading aloud | Tagged , , , , , , , | 65 Comments

Reading Tricks for Kids of Any Age

Posted on January 12, 2019 by Jennie

Originally posted on Mom's Favorite Reads:
As a dad of a 3-year-old whirlwind, I find myself already asking the question facing most parents: how can I make my child read more and spend less time in front of a…

Posted in Uncategorized | 30 Comments

‘Gloria’ Works Wonders

Posted on January 11, 2019 by Jennie

Some days just aren’t the best days.  Children feel that, too.  When everything seems to fall apart, there is Gloria.  She is the quiet one, the savior.  She listens to children and gets hugged – constantly.  She lives on the … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Kindness, Love, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , , , , | 42 Comments

In a Box of Crayons (Children & Art)

Posted on January 8, 2019 by Jennie

Originally posted on All in a Day's Breath:
In a box of crayons, I am the orange. Who are you? Ok, I believe that each of us can be represented by at least one crayon. I know for myself, I am definitely not a pink, or a brown, though…

Posted in Uncategorized | 28 Comments

A Little Free Library

Posted on January 8, 2019 by Jennie

A woman in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho had to have a diseased tree removed, so she had them leave enough of the stump to build a free library.

Posted in books, Early Education, Giving, Inspiration, reading | Tagged , , , , | 54 Comments

SO NOT MARY POPPINS! by Margo Sorenson

Posted on January 7, 2019 by Jennie

Originally posted on Nerdy Book Club:
The world of children is abuzz! Disney says its new Mary Poppins movie released in December will be truer to the books than the original movie in 1964, starring Dick Van Dyke and Julie…

Posted in Uncategorized | 15 Comments

The ‘Morning Star’

Posted on January 6, 2019 by Jennie

Originally posted on S'amusing:
Photo of planet Venus (tiny spec) above town high school 12/20/18 The students and I have been fortunate to have the planet Venus looking down at us as we make our way to school, or,…

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, joy, Nature, Singing, Uncategorized, wonder | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 31 Comments

When Children Have the Freedom To “Be”

Posted on January 4, 2019 by Jennie

While this is a post I wrote about play performances with children, it is really about far more.  Oh, yes!  It is about believing and taking risks.  It is about freedom and encouragement.  It’s my philosophy of teaching.  Paying attention … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, joy, Love, play performances, preschool, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , , | 92 Comments