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.

Play

Posted on May 23, 2021 by Jennie

“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 | Tagged , , , , , , , | 83 Comments

Goodnight Moon – Part 2

Posted on May 19, 2021 by Jennie

“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 →

Posted in Uncategorized | 50 Comments

Goodnight Moon

Posted on May 17, 2021 by Jennie

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 | Tagged , , , , , , , | 67 Comments

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