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.
How fortuitous to wake up to this wonderful quote this morning, after learning of the passing of Eric Carle yesterday.
Eric Carle died this past weekend at age 91. I’m strong, and I’m prepared for most anything, yet learning today that Eric Carle died hit me hard. He was the mainstay of literature for young children. “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” … Continue reading →
Posted in children's books, Death and dying, Early Education, Eric Carle, Expressing words and feelings, museums, picture books, preschool, Teaching young children
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Tagged children's books, Death of Eric Carle, Eric Carle, Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, The Very Hungry Caterpillar
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I will never forget my first visit to the Children’s Museum in Philadelphia back in the 80’s. It’s called The Please Touch Museum and it’s a wonderful, hands-on museum. But, it wasn’t the typical fare of a great children’s museum … Continue reading →
This gallery contains 18 photos.
Originally posted on No Facilities:
From the museum webpage: The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum, the newest museum on the Quadrangle (where four other museums are located), is devoted to Springfield native Theodor Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss! Theodor Seuss…
“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” ~Mr. Rogers~ The dinosaurs are congregating. They don’t look happy. “They need … Continue reading →
Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, preschool, School, Teaching young children
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Tagged Critical divergent thinking, Early Education, Mr. Rogers, Play, Problem solving, teaching young children, the importance of play, Working together
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“Goodnight Moon” keeps growing and evolving. Children have heard the words over and over again, a beloved daily ritual before chapter reading. Recently they have joined me in reciting the entire book. The Helper of the Day can stand alongside … Continue reading →
Before children learn to read, first they must hear the words. It’s developmental, like learning to crawl before learning to walk. The auditory piece, including singing, hits both the brain and the soul in learning. In my preschool class, reading … Continue reading →
Posted in Book Review, children's books, Early Education, picture books, preschool, reading aloud, reading aloud, Teaching young children
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Tagged children's books, Early Education, Goodnight Moon, Hearing the words before reading the words, Language and literature, Learning to read, literacy, reading aloud
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What is a Wish Tree? Wikipedia says: A wish tree is an individual tree, usually distinguished by species, position or appearance, which is used as an object of wishes and offerings. Such trees are identified as possessing a special spiritual … Continue reading →
Posted in books, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Inspiration, Love, Nature, Teaching young children, wonder
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Tagged Cape Cod wish tree, Children and a wish tree, Children making wishes, Early Education, Inspiration, When You Wish Upon a Star, Wish Trees, Wishtree by Katherine Applegate
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Originally posted on bluebird of bitterness:
In honor of the birthday of Irving Berlin, here is one of his greatest hits, sung by Kings Return. https://youtu.be/8YqGEbJPvIo
Originally posted on Bette A. Stevens, Maine Author:
“The love of reading is a lynchpin for successful learning—for success in life. Kids learn to read best when adults take time to share their passion for books with them.” ~Bette A. Stevens,…
A Teacher's Reflections 