Category Archives: children’s books

“This Land is Your Land”

Posted on November 12, 2023 by Jennie

In light of Veterans Day and how our country needs to come together, I am reposting an old post on patriotism and singing, specifically Woody Guthrie’s song “This Land is Your Land.”  Thank you to Don Ostertag who said I … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, Book Review, children's books, history, Inspiration, patriotism, picture books, Singing, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 39 Comments

Play + Nature and “The Giving Tree”

Posted on November 7, 2023 by Jennie

When play occurs outdoors in natural elements, it draws children in.  It whispers, “Come and play, I have everything to give you.” The leaves were bursting with color. Ladybugs were everywhere. Sticks and rocks are great for building. The playground … Continue reading →

Posted in children's books, Early Education, Imagination, Inspiration, Nature, Play, preschool, reading aloud, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , , , | 63 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

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

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

Amanda!

Posted on July 27, 2023 by Jennie

Reading a book is perfect. Reading by the pool is more perfect. Reading Amanda books is most perfect. I just finished the book! I don’t get to read as much as I want to.  Summer is my window, and I … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, books, children's books, geography, Learning About the World, literacy, reading | Tagged , , , | 104 Comments

Book Bears, Library Reading, and a Pleading Letter

Posted on June 25, 2023 by Jennie

My public library Book Bears group and Read Aloud group have finished for the school year.  Book Bears read a book each month, and we discuss the book the following month.  The Year of Billy Miller by Kevin Henkes and Stella … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, chapter reading, children's books, Early Education, Inspiration, Jim Trelease, literacy, reading aloud, reading aloud, wonder | Tagged , , , , , | 45 Comments

Chapter Reading Throughout the School Year

Posted on June 9, 2023 by Jennie

Here is my annual end of school year letter to parents: Chapter Reading June 9, 2023 Chapter reading is one of our treasured moments of the day.  We bring to life the imagination, the world, and the past.  The anticipation … Continue reading →

Posted in chapter reading, children's books, Early Education, Imagination, Inspiration, literacy, reading aloud, reading aloud | Tagged , , | 58 Comments

How “Goodnight Moon” Evolves Each School Year

Posted on May 25, 2023 by Jennie

Language is #1 for children, and literacy is the road to developing their language.  I read picture books to children all the time, and chapter read at rest time.  Books are always available to children.  They become ‘good friends’ and … Continue reading →

Posted in chapter reading, children's books, Early Education, Inspiration, Jim Trelease, literacy, picture books, reading aloud, reading aloud, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , | 69 Comments

Amanda Books at the Public Library!

Posted on April 21, 2023 by Jennie

Thursday is my Read-Aloud day at the Groton Public Library.  When I arrived, the head children’s librarian was beside herself. “Jennie!  Jennie!  The Amanda books are here!” And then she showed me all the books.  Wow!  Nine books. Of course … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, children's books, geography, Giving thanks, literacy, reading | Tagged , , | 77 Comments