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.

Our Wish Tree

Posted on May 13, 2021 by Jennie

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 | Tagged , , , , , , , | 82 Comments

Happy birthday, Irving

Posted on May 12, 2021 by Jennie

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

Posted in Uncategorized | 30 Comments

Inspiring Kids of All Ages—One Book at a Time—May is #GetCaughtReading Month!

Posted on May 10, 2021 by Jennie

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,…

Posted in Uncategorized | 32 Comments

Reading Aloud & Reading – There’s a Big Difference.

Posted on May 9, 2021 by Jennie

My greatest passion is reading aloud to children.  I thought it was time to talk about the difference between reading and reading aloud, as I often post about good children’s books.  While reading is the goal, the dream- reading aloud … Continue reading →

Posted in books, Early Education, Inspiration, Jim Trelease, reading, reading aloud, reading aloud, School, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 99 Comments

These Robots Got the Moves!

Posted on May 7, 2021 by Jennie

Thank you Mitch Teemley for featuring my post. It was a pleasure to be a guest on your blog. This was one of my favorite moments, too! Mitch Teemley Guest Blog by A Teacher’s Reflections New England-based preschool teacher Jennie … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | 26 Comments

My Sweet Children

Posted on May 5, 2021 by Jennie

This could be me… My wonderful students said ‘thank you’ for Teacher Appreciation Week. Coffee, cookies, flowers, and a card that made me cry. I am touched, and so very lucky. Jennie

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Kindness, Love, preschool | Tagged , , , , | 102 Comments

📚Teacher Appreciation Week🍎

Posted on May 4, 2021 by Jennie

Originally posted on By Hook Or By Book:
?I’ve done a few posts over the years to honor teachers, especially this time of year. As I have such wonderful memories of my own school-age experiences, as well as of the…

Posted in Uncategorized | 31 Comments

Reading Aloud + Family History = The Best Learning

Posted on May 2, 2021 by Jennie

We often take it for granted that we have fresh water to drink.  Children certainly do. In our chapter reading book, “Little House on the Prairie”, Pa and Mr. Scott dig a well.  Learning where fresh water comes from was … Continue reading →

Posted in books, chapter reading, Early Education, Family, history, Learning About the World, reading aloud | Tagged , , , , , | 124 Comments

Just a Reminder…

Posted on April 30, 2021 by Jennie

Originally posted on Raising Readers…:
This is normally thought of in the context of school, but I think its important at home as well, especially when #raisingreaders!

Posted in Uncategorized | 54 Comments

“Amanda in Holland” is Terrific!

Posted on April 27, 2021 by Jennie

I’m the book guru at school.  That’s what they call me.  Finding a good children’s book is one of my greatest pleasures, next to reading aloud to children.  Teachers and parents lean on me for good books.  The storyline of … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, children's books, history, Learning About the World, military, reading | Tagged , , , , , , | 80 Comments