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.

R.I.P. Patricia MacLachlan

Posted on July 10, 2022 by Jennie

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 , , , , , | 69 Comments

A Lost Treasure – Found

Posted on July 6, 2022 by Jennie

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

Posted on July 4, 2022 by Jennie

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

Posted on July 1, 2022 by Jennie

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

Posted on June 26, 2022 by Jennie

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

Posted on June 24, 2022 by Jennie

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

Posted on June 23, 2022 by Jennie

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

Power of Thought…………

Posted on June 21, 2022 by Jennie

Originally posted on Boundless Blessings by Kamal:
Once a mentally troubled child came home and gave a letter to his mother.? He told her, “My teacher gave this letter to me and told me to only give it to my…

Posted in Uncategorized | 38 Comments

“The” Invitation From a Former Student

Posted on June 19, 2022 by Jennie

I got an invitation most every teacher dreams about.  But first I need to tell you about this student: I remember my students.  I love them.  Some stick with me more than others, and Colin was one of those students.  … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, joy, Love, music, play performances, Singing, Student alumni, The Arts | Tagged , , , | 107 Comments

‘Donut Party’ and Much More

Posted on June 17, 2022 by Jennie

We had our year-end event with families this week.  It was the first time in two years that families, children, and teachers were all together.  It was wonderful.  Children called it the ‘Donut Party’, because they knew doughnuts would be … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Inspiration, Love, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 78 Comments