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.

God Bless America – Twelve Years Later

Posted on July 18, 2023 by Jennie

I stopped by school last week, which is currently in Summer Camp mode.  High school volunteers are a welcome and fun part of the group.  What happened was delightful: First I was mobbed by children (always wonderful), then Jess, a … Continue reading →

Posted in America, Expressing words and feelings, history, Inspiration, museums, music, patriotism, quilting, School, Student alumni, summer camp, Teaching young children, The Arts, wonder | Tagged , , , , , | 50 Comments

The Dead Pine Tree Becomes Art

Posted on July 14, 2023 by Jennie

The majestic pine tree, king of the yard, finally passed away. He was mighty in his day. When he became a shell of himself we had a brilliant idea. We can save the trunk and turn it into art. The … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Einstein, Nature, Quotes, The Arts, wonder | Tagged , , | 110 Comments

Growing Bookworms – Reasons why reading is good for your child or teenager’s mental health

Posted on July 13, 2023 by Jennie

Originally posted on Writing to be Read:
From March 2020 mental health increased world-wide and those affected include children and teenagers. Post-pandemic, mental health issues continue to be prevalent among children and teenagers. Although most children and teenagers who contracted…

Posted in Uncategorized | 27 Comments

My Dog

Posted on July 8, 2023 by Jennie

My friend and fellow blogger, John Howell @ Fiction Favorites  posted a terrific story last month on his Friday Good News post about a little dog who went after a coyote and saved the life of his dog pal. Dogs saves … Continue reading →

Posted in Death and dying, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Kindness, Nature, wonder | Tagged , , , , | 107 Comments

Heaven

Posted on July 7, 2023 by Jennie

Heaven in my own backyard. Jennie

Posted in art, Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, Nature, wonder | Tagged , | 48 Comments

One Voice

Posted on July 4, 2023 by Jennie

My final thought today on this Fourth of July is we are one.  No one is alone.  We all work together. History is filled with these moments that make me proud to be an American. This song says it all. … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, military, music, patriotism, Singing | Tagged , , | 30 Comments

A New Flag

Posted on July 4, 2023 by Jennie

A wood carver lovingly made us an American Flag, just in time for the Fourth of July. It is big and heavy, and hangs on our porch. It’s beautiful! Daytime Nighttime Anytime at all, looking at this American Flag is … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, Inspiration, patriotism | Tagged , , , | 34 Comments

Sam the Eagle Scout

Posted on July 1, 2023 by Jennie

Sam was my preschooler many years ago.  He always had a smile and enjoyed playing with friends.  Sam’s mother was careful about finding the right preschool for her boy.  When she visited the public library, she found The Groton ABC … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Giving thanks, Gloria, Inspiration, Kindness, self esteem, teaching, wonder | Tagged , , | 59 Comments

Stormy Twilight

Posted on June 27, 2023 by Jennie

Twilight. Thunder rumbles in the distance. I stay outside to watch the clouds. They are beautiful in darkening majesty. They move swiftly and change with the wind. I turn to look at my porch, beckoning me to come and watch … Continue reading →

Posted in Mother Nature, Nature, wonder | Tagged , , , | 40 Comments

Book Bears, Library Reading, and a Pleading Letter

Posted on June 25, 2023 by Jennie

My public library Book Bears group and Read Aloud group have finished for the school year.  Book Bears read a book each month, and we discuss the book the following month.  The Year of Billy Miller by Kevin Henkes and Stella … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, chapter reading, children's books, Early Education, Inspiration, Jim Trelease, literacy, reading aloud, reading aloud, wonder | Tagged , , , , , | 45 Comments