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.

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

Valentines and Love

Posted on February 13, 2021 by Jennie

~Valentines~ A gift, a symbol of love. I received many today. Gloria did, too. In the words of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, “All You Need is Love.” Jennie

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Gloria, Inspiration, Kindness, Love, music, picture books, Quotes, Singing, The Arts, The Beatles | Tagged , , , , , , , | 60 Comments

A Children’s Book, Especially For Today – by Maya Angelou

Posted on February 11, 2021 by Jennie

My Painted House, My Friendly Chicken, and Me Did you know that Maya Angelou wrote a children’s book?  She did, back in 1994.  I have been reading her book to my preschoolers long before I really knew of her. I … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, books, children's books, Diversity, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, picture books, Quotes, self esteem, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , | 85 Comments

Views of the Neighborhood – #LakewayStoryWalk

Posted on February 7, 2021 by Jennie

Originally posted on Fiction Favorites:
This week is a Storybook Walk – Valentines edition. The book on the walk is “I’d Know You Anywhere My Love” by Nancy Tillman. We will be taking the bus to the Lakeway Activities Center…

Posted in Uncategorized | 29 Comments

The Crossing Guard Chronicles: Extra Credit & Life’s Little Rewards

Posted on February 5, 2021 by Jennie

Originally posted on S'amusing:
“Extra credit! I got extra credit!” The red-tail hawk perched on the overhead traffic signal at my school crossing post had my rapt(or) attention, so I didn’t hear the initial shouts. And the glare of…

Posted in Uncategorized | 34 Comments

Snow Smiles

Posted on February 4, 2021 by Jennie

Children and teachers discovered smiles in the snow overhanging the roof.  No one knows who made it.  We were the first to play on the playground and delight in the deep new snow.  Thank you to the mystery artist and … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Giving, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Uncategorized | Tagged , , | 67 Comments

Sue Vincent, “A Child’s Tale”

Posted on February 2, 2021 by Jennie

I am reposting Sue Vincent’s outstanding blog post on children, reading, writing, and the depth of meaning that only Sue can truly understand and express.  Her timeless wisdom compares to C.S. Lewis.  Thank you, Sue.  You have touched me and … Continue reading →

Posted in books, children's books, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, reading, wonder | Tagged , , , , | 60 Comments

“Amanda in Holland: Missing in Action”

Posted on February 1, 2021 by Jennie

Look what arrived today! Amanda in Holland: Missing in Action by Darlene Foster Just the book I’ve been wanting to read. And, what a perfect day to curl up with a new book. It’s snowing to beat the band outside. … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, books, chapter reading, children's books, Inspiration, reading | Tagged , , , | 46 Comments