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.

Today’s Quote

Posted in Uncategorized | 27 Comments

Summer at the Eric Carle Museum

My summer venture at the Eric Carle Museum was nothing short of wonderful.  I have much to tell you! The Very Hungry Caterpillar Mobile The museum is celebrating 20 years.  The main exhibit is Celebrating Collage.  Of course!  Eric Carle’s … Continue reading

Posted in art, children's books, Early Education, Eric Carle, Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, museums, picture books, The Arts, wonder | Tagged , , , | 86 Comments

Feathers

Tonight there were feathers in the sky. Jennie

Posted in Inspiration, Mother Nature, Nature, wonder | Tagged , | 59 Comments

R.I.P. Patricia MacLachlan

My Patricia MacLachlan books Patricia MacLachlan passed away on March 31st at the age of 84.  She has crossed the Rainbow Bridge to be with her dogs, especially those in her books.  It has taken me some time to write … Continue reading

Posted in Book Review, books, children's books, Dogs, Expressing words and feelings, literacy, Particia MacLachlan, reading | Tagged , , , , , | 67 Comments

A Lost Treasure – Found

The Lufkin Rule Co. Saginaw, Mich. U.S.A. 50 ft. My father had some pretty cool tools.  All hand tools of course, no power tools.  I think my understanding of hands-on learning and how I teach young children stemmed from his … Continue reading

Posted in history, Inspiration, Math, preschool, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , | 73 Comments

Music Makes the 4th of July

The 4th of July – America’s declaration of independence.  I teach children about the American flag, and patriotism.  It’s important.  Best of all, children often lead the way.  Their interests are the springboard for the best learning. The 4th of … Continue reading

Posted in America, Giving thanks, Inspiration, music, patriotism, Singing, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 51 Comments

My Summer Children

My garden is my summer children.  I take care of the flowers just like I take care of children.  Every year the flowers are different, and I don’t know why.  Mother Nature has her own agenda.  Every year children are … Continue reading

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, Mother Nature, Nature, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 99 Comments

Gloria’s Summer Adventure – With Oscar

Gloria is spending time at my house until she ‘heads to Maine’ for her annual summer retreat. “Jennie, can Oscar come. too?  He really wants to spend the summer with me.” “Of course he can, Gloria.” The first day was … Continue reading

Posted in behavior, Diversity, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Gloria, Imagination, Inspiration, Love, wonder | Tagged , , , , , | 69 Comments

Knuckleheads

Look what arrived today! Knuckleheads, by Dan Antion Summer reading, here I come! Jennie

Posted in books, Inspiration, literacy, reading | Tagged , , | 76 Comments

The Final Letter

As soon as the school year is over and the dust has settled, my final letter to families is a reflection of the school year.  It takes families through the highlights so they can relive those moments and classroom experiences … Continue reading

Posted in American flag, art, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, preschool, School, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 74 Comments