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.

Boston’s Music, “Pops Goes the Fourth”

I moved to Massachusetts in 1984.  Since then, I have faithfully watched the Boston Pops perform every Fourth of July.  Back then, John Williams was the conductor.  He was the man who wrote the music for my favorite movies, “ET”, … Continue reading

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The Real ‘Teddy’ Story, and More

This weekend I cleaned my office; the yearly organization and the game of ‘keep or toss’.  Every year I take great care with three stories that are worn and torn, written long before computers and the internet.  Those stories are … Continue reading

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When Children Bring the Music

Colin and his mother came into school looking happy and half-humming, half-singing something very familiar.  Their whole presence and attitude was atypical, because they behaved as if they were actually part of the song.  I realized they were singing “Oh … Continue reading

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Doctor Dave, and Art

Art can sneak up on you when you least expect it.  When that happens, open your mind and be ready.  It’s a thrilling experience. I sliced my finger badly with a hedge trimmer…ouch!  Off to the ER after pouring a … Continue reading

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Chapter Reading

Chapter reading is one of our treasured moments of the day. We bring to life the imagination, the world, and the past. The anticipation of ‘what happens next’ stirs excitement every day. Children listen and think. They ask questions. Ask … Continue reading

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Teaching Patriotism and Singing, Part II

Singing and music are powerful and universal.  Is there a part of “The Star Spangled Banner” that gives you a lump in your throat?  When I sing, “…gave proof through the night”, that does it for me.  We all hold … Continue reading

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Teaching Patriotism

It all started with our field trip to the Shriners Circus years ago.  This circus is a perfect event for preschoolers as it’s grand but not overwhelming.  My class was seated and ready.  The circus began with lowering a big … Continue reading

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Teaching: it’s The Cake and the Frosting

Our everyday learning in the classroom reminds me of a big cake. The necessary ingredients are science, math, reading, writing, language, geography and the arts. A cake is mixed by hand, just as our learning is hands-on. And, the frosting? … Continue reading

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“The Art Show” S.T.E.M. + Art = S.T.E.A.M

The Art Show is on display at last.  Thanks to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), and plenty of inspiration, the children did it!  They created remarkable works of art, worthy of a real Art Show. When I look at … Continue reading

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A Spontaneous and Emergent Conversation

Transition times are tricky for both teachers and children, especially when spring arrives. Children seem to ‘feel it in their bones’, and are constantly on the move. Spring is definitely an awakening. Teachers observe this every year and foster all … Continue reading

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