Author Archives: Jennie

About Jennie

I have been teaching preschool for over thirty-five 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.

Music Begins to Inspire Our Art.

Posted on March 25, 2018 by Jennie

“The music goes into your ears and into your brain.  Then, as you listen to the notes and sounds, it goes into your heart and shoots out of your fingers.  Like a million stars.  It’s magic.” Those are the words … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Early Education, Inspiration, music, Teaching young children, The Arts, wonder | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 103 Comments

School Spirit Day

Posted on March 23, 2018 by Jennie

“I’ve got spirit.  Yes I do.  I’ve got spirit.  How about YOU.” Children love singing and cheering, and rooting for their school.  Every March our school has a giant pep rally. We parade with pom-poms, sing our school song, holler … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Love, Peace, self esteem, Singing, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 33 Comments

In the Words of a Child, an Art Masterpiece

Posted on March 22, 2018 by Jennie

The children have started painting in earnest, and studying both art and techniques.  All this work and joy is in preparation for our annual Art Show.  Much more on that to come. I want to share a funny story this … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Early Education, Teaching young children, The Arts, wonder | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 80 Comments

80 Years of Caldecott Winners

Posted on March 19, 2018 by Jennie

For all you book lovers, this year marks the 80th year of the prestigious Caldecott Medal Award. The Randolph Caldecott Medal annually recognizes the preceding year’s “most distinguished American picture book for children”, beginning with 1937 publications. This award is … Continue reading →

Posted in art, books, children's books, Early Education, Eric Carle, museums, picture books, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , | 52 Comments

The Violin and Ice Hockey and St. Patrick’s Day

Posted on March 17, 2018 by Jennie

Tonight, St. Patrick’s Day, the Boston Bruins play the Tampa Bay Lightening.  Two great ice hockey teams.  The National Anthem always introduces the game with a variety of singers.  Not tonight.  Two musicians played “The Star Spangled Banner” – a … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Early Education, music, patriotism, Singing, Teaching young children, The Arts | Tagged , , , , , , | 44 Comments

The Importance of Reading Aloud – Guest Post

Posted on March 17, 2018 by Jennie

Thank you Norah Colvin at readilearn for having me as a guest.  I’m so glad you asked.  It was a pleasure. The Importance of Reading Aloud — A Guest Post by Jennie Fitzkee Jennie, a passionate and inspirational teacher, has … Continue reading →

Posted in books, chapter reading, children's books, Early Education, Imagination, Jim Trelease, picture books, reading, reading aloud, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 29 Comments

“Katy and the Big Snow”…and So Much More

Posted on March 15, 2018 by Jennie

Katy and the Big Snow, by Virginia Lee Burton is a classic children’s book that continues to be beloved today.  After three nor’easter snow storms these past two week, it was the perfect read.  The book never gets old, children … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, children's books, Early Education, geography, Learning About the World, picture stories, reading, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 38 Comments

Parenting Illustrated

Posted on March 14, 2018 by Jennie

Originally posted on Mitch Teemley:
Raising a Toddler: Raising a Teenager: Parent’s School Experience: Child’s School Experience: Parent’s Goals for Teenager: Teenager’s Goals: Off to College! After College: Any Questions?

Posted in Uncategorized | 28 Comments

Meeting Jane Yolen at the Eric Carle Museum

Posted on March 12, 2018 by Jennie

Jane Yolen spoke to teachers, librarians and writers yesterday at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Massachusetts.  She has just published her 365th book.  Really.  Sold out event.  I knew I had to be there because … Continue reading →

Posted in Author interview, children's books, Early Education, Eric Carle, Inspiration, museums, picture books, reading, reading aloud, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , , | 59 Comments

When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” – Fred Rogers

Posted on March 10, 2018 by Jennie

Originally posted on Children Are Our Future Now!:
Children Are Our Future Now! View original post

Posted in Uncategorized | 26 Comments