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.

The Road Out of Hate

Posted on October 10, 2023 by Jennie

Hate is the ugliest and most debilitating feeling.  I know, and I have come a long way.  Growing up in the south in America in the 50’s and 60’s, there was hate.  The wall of segregation made sure that hate … Continue reading →

Posted in Diversity, Expressing words and feelings, Gloria, Inspiration | Tagged , , , | 51 Comments

I often quote E.B. White on his keen observations of nature. M.C. Tuggle gives us another remarkable quotation.

Posted on October 6, 2023 by Jennie
Posted in Uncategorized | 29 Comments

The Story of Art – My Journey With Juliet

Posted on October 2, 2023 by Jennie

I write this journey backwards in time, as it tells a better story. Juliet, fourteen years later. Juliet noticed everything.  She loved to draw, and her pictures were detailed and beautiful.  Little did I know she had paid attention to … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Inspiration, museums, Peace, quilting, Teaching young children, The Arts | Tagged , , , | 67 Comments

I Was There!

Posted on September 27, 2023 by Jennie

I was at the library the same day he was. It was his birthday, six years old at last, which means he can get his very own library card. He did! Look at his enormous smile. I was his preschool … Continue reading →

Posted in books, chapter reading, children's books, Inspiration, literacy, reading, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , , , | 74 Comments

The Mystery Gifter

Posted on September 24, 2023 by Jennie

Remember my beloved 9/11 pin that I gifted to the granddaughter of a NYC firefighter, who fought bravely that terrible day?  Here is what happened:  9/11 – Learning and Giving, Today The story doesn’t end there. This week I went … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, Giving, Giving thanks, patriotism | Tagged , , | 52 Comments

My Summer Book Reading

Posted on September 21, 2023 by Jennie

My summer book reading was absolutely wonderful. Not only were the books terrific, the collection was broad, from picture books to chapter reading, to books for much older children (and adults.) Can I pick a favorite?  Absolutely not. Sea Dog, … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, books, children's books, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , , | 76 Comments

Oscar the Otter, Pete Springer, and the Big Get Well Letter

Posted on September 16, 2023 by Jennie

Two things happened at the same time; fellow blogger Pete Springer received a pacemaker, and school began.  Here’s the connection- Pete visited my class two years ago all the way from California, and gifted the children Oscar the Otter.  It … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, preschool, School, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 74 Comments

9/11 – Learning and Giving, Today

Posted on September 11, 2023 by Jennie

Tonight, 9/11, 7:00 P.M. Photo was taken from Hoboken, NJ right across the water. Before I went to school today, ready to help children honor heroes and learn about the American flag, I sent a text to all the teachers, … Continue reading →

Posted in America, Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Kindness, patriotism | Tagged , , | 54 Comments

Books to Read on 9/11

Posted on September 11, 2023 by Jennie

On this day, 9/11, we must remember the tragedy.  We must never forget the bravery of firefighters and police officers, and so many people who stopped their lives to do the right thing.  There are stories to help us remember. … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, books, children's books, history, patriotism, picture books, reading, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 38 Comments

Imagination is the root of learning, discovery, and joy. Thank you, Charles French, for these excellent quotations on imagination.

Posted on September 10, 2023 by Jennie
Posted in Uncategorized | 15 Comments