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.

Isabelle’s Story

Posted on May 6, 2017 by Jennie

I read-aloud at the library; great literature and a captive audience of children. Isabelle is part of my book group that includes first and second graders.  As the year has progressed she has grown from shy and quiet to relaxed and chatty.  … Continue reading →

Posted in chapter reading, Early Education, reading, reading aloud, storytelling, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , | 63 Comments

The Best of Jim Trelease

Posted on May 3, 2017 by Jennie

I love a good story, especially one that involves reading aloud and the stunning difference it makes with children.  Here is a favorite story of mine, from the million-copy best selling book, The Read-Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease: “During his … Continue reading →

Posted in chapter reading, Early Education, Jim Trelease, picture books, reading, reading aloud, storytelling, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , , | 18 Comments

Fragment of the Day – The Love of Books

Posted on April 30, 2017 by Jennie
Posted in Uncategorized | 12 Comments

Beyond Telling a Story

Posted on April 28, 2017 by Jennie

I tell stories.  It began many years ago during lunchtime in my classroom with my preschoolers.  I told a story about my childhood, The Peanut Man, which has become a classic story that children beg for, along with at least fourteen … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Learning About the World, storytelling, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 64 Comments

Quotations on Inspiration

Posted on April 26, 2017 by Jennie

Originally posted on charles french words reading and writing:
(https://pixabay.com) “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”                                                                     Mahatma Gandhi ? (https://pixabay.com) “There are only two ways to live your life.…

Posted in Uncategorized | 22 Comments

Learn From A Cat

Posted on April 26, 2017 by Jennie
Posted in Uncategorized | 7 Comments

More Than An Outstanding Book!

Posted on April 24, 2017 by Jennie

When a writer can deliver a message in few words, while leaving a lasting impression on both children and adults (including me), I buy the book.  The Lion And The Bird, by Marianne Dubuc is that book. The book has far … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Imagination, Kindness, picture books, reading aloud, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , | 43 Comments

Chickens Don’t Sweat

Posted on April 20, 2017 by Jennie

Chickens don’t sweat.  Really, this is absolutely true.  I was behind a chicken truck driving along the Eastern Shore yesterday. The moment I saw this truck (I was driving) I yelled at my husband, “It’s a chicken truck!  Get the … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Imagination, Learning About the World, storytelling | Tagged , , , , | 44 Comments

Lightening Strikes Twice

Posted on April 16, 2017 by Jennie

The first bolt of lightening:       One year ago this week, I was recognized as one of seven Early Childhood Educators in Massachusetts.  It was an honor, and a celebratory event.  I stood among top educators and also the … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Imagination, Kindness, Peace, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , | 57 Comments

The Art Show

Posted on April 14, 2017 by Jennie

“It took me a lifetime to learn to draw like a child.” -Pablo Picasso- When I brought the children to see the Art Show this week, the first words were from a child, Allie.  She said, “This is beautiful!”  She … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Early Education, Imagination, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , | 38 Comments