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.

Quote of the day

Posted on March 4, 2021 by Jennie

Originally posted on M.C. Tuggle, Writer:
“Stories are among the most intimate and personal things we have. Stories touch the imagination and are deeply implanted in one’s psyche and consciousness. Without stories there can be no culture. Without stories…

Posted in Uncategorized | 27 Comments

Sue Vincent, the Wordsmith and Giver

Posted on March 1, 2021 by Jennie

A true wordsmith can pack a punch into few words that leaves the reader feeling as if s/he has been given a golden key to questioning and understanding. A wordsmith who is also a giver leaves the reader feeling that … Continue reading →

Posted in Death and dying, Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Giving thanks, Inspiration, reading, storytelling, wonder | Tagged , , , , | 77 Comments

A Tale of Two Dale Chihuly’s – Part 3

Posted on February 28, 2021 by Jennie

In Part 1, I discovered my first Dale Chihuly at the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia.  In Part 2, I read aloud the poetry book my classroom wrote, inspired by the museum. A recent update: the museum is planning a new Peace exhibit … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Early Education, Inspiration, museums, preschool, The Arts | Tagged , , , , , , | 57 Comments

“Life Begins When You Get Back Up” – a Memorable Day at School

Posted on February 24, 2021 by Jennie

 Music brings joy to children. Books bring questions and thinking. Teachers bring love and answers. Today at school was a day I’ll always remember.  So will the children.  Emotions ran high.  In Dickens’ words, “It was the best of times, … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, books, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, music, picture books, preschool, reading aloud, reading aloud, School, Singing, The Arts | Tagged , , , , , , | 91 Comments

Nature + Art = Beauty

Posted on February 23, 2021 by Jennie

Nature + Art = Beauty This is my car windshield this morning. Thank goodness I paid attention. Jennie

Posted in art, Inspiration, Nature | Tagged , , | 100 Comments

A Tale of Two Dale Chihuly’s – Part 2

Posted on February 20, 2021 by Jennie

In Part 1, I discovered a magnificent Dale Chihuly work of art at the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia.  The glass structure is 21 feet tall and titled “Flame of Liberty”.  In the same museum is a Peace Portal, a structure with … Continue reading →

Posted in art, books, children's books, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, museums, Peace, picture books, Poetry, reading aloud, The Arts | Tagged , , , , , | 64 Comments

Blogging Anniversary

Posted on February 19, 2021 by Jennie

This was a surprise I received from Word Press. 7 years.  Oh, my! Happy Anniversary with WordPress.com! You registered on WordPress.com 7 years ago. Thanks for flying with us. Keep up the good blogging. Jennie

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Writing | Tagged , | 93 Comments

Random Acts of Kindness Day

Posted on February 17, 2021 by Jennie

Originally posted on By Hook Or By Book:
Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you. ~ Princess Diana ~

Posted in Uncategorized | 15 Comments

A Tale of Two Dale Chihuly’s – Part 1

Posted on February 17, 2021 by Jennie

Dale Chihuly’s glass art is magnificent.  I have been fortunate to see two of his blown glass sculptures, each with a different story that inspired me in unexpected ways. “It happened like this…” The first Chihuly I saw was at … Continue reading →

Posted in art, books, children's books, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, museums, Peace, Poetry, preschool, The Arts | Tagged , , , , , , , | 77 Comments

“Love Bugs” All Over Town

Posted on February 14, 2021 by Jennie

My wonderful co-teacher, Heidi, worked with the children to make “Love Bugs” and deliver them all over town.  Children loved spreading kindness and love for Valentine’s Day.  Here is what we wrote to families, along with photos.  Look at those … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Kindness, Love | 86 Comments