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.

11 Years – Wow

I never realized back then, 11 years ago, that my fellow bloggers would become my community – true friends. I am forever thankful for all of you.  You are my family. Happy Anniversary with WordPress.com! You registered on WordPress.com 11 … Continue reading

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Kindness | Tagged , | 86 Comments

Jane Yolen – Happy Birthday and The New Book

Jane Yolen is one of the most esteemed authors of children’s books.  Her dinosaur books are extremely popular and familiar to many. She turned 86 this week, and I was invited to her birthday party! In order to tell you … Continue reading

Posted in Author interview, Book Review, children's books, Eric Carle Museum, Imagination, Inspiration, literacy, museums, picture books, reading aloud, storytelling | Tagged , , , , , | 67 Comments

The Poet’s Dog – Reading it Again

When The Poet’s Dog was hot off the press nearly ten years ago. I was eager to read the book.  I loved Patricia MacLachlan Sarah, Plain and Tall, yet I never expected to be so moved by this book.  I … Continue reading

Posted in Book Review, chapter reading, children's books, Dogs, Heart, Inspiration, joy, Kindness, literacy, Particia MacLachlan, reading aloud, wonder | Tagged , , , | 68 Comments

Thank You, Dave. Joy Truly is a Magic Word.

Posted in Uncategorized | 41 Comments

Robots!

Children love robots.  They’re a great introduction to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) learning, and robots are very cool.  I invited our local Groton-Dunstable High School Robotics Club – The Robotomies – to visit the Aqua Roomers with their robots.  … Continue reading

Posted in Early Education, Giving thanks, Imagination, Inspiration, literacy, robots, School, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , , , , | 80 Comments

Gloria and Zeb to the Rescue

Gloria has been a bit lonely this year.  The children love her, yet she spends much of her days sitting on the couch.  I see her smiling at the children.  I wonder how her heart feels. We’re learning about Africa.  … Continue reading

Posted in behavior, geography, Gloria, Inspiration, Kindness, Love, preschool, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , | 107 Comments

Remembering the Little Things

The little things are the big things in life although we often don’t see it at the moment. You never know when the things you do will be meaningful or important to others. Goodness always carries the right message. My … Continue reading

Posted in behavior, Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Giving thanks, Heart, Inspiration, Kindness, Student alumni | Tagged , | 64 Comments

Family Photo Collages

Our first parent event at school is Back-To-School Night.  We have a meet-and-greet, parents connect with each other and with teachers, and we talk about our philosophy and curriculum. Then, parents make a family photo collage for their child.  It … Continue reading

Posted in behavior, children's books, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Inspiration, joy, Love, picture books, preschool, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 69 Comments

This New Year Irish Blessing is Wonderful.

Posted in Uncategorized | 38 Comments

Happy New Year, Gloria!

Hubby:  “Jennie, did Gloria have Christmas with an Aqua Roomer?” Me:  “No, she did not.” Long pause… Hubby:  “And you didn’t bring her home to have Christmas with us?” He was right.  I felt terrible.  Gloria was alone at school. … Continue reading

Posted in Gloria, Inspiration, joy, Kindness, Love, reading aloud | Tagged , | 65 Comments