Category Archives: Family

Family First

Posted on August 17, 2025 by Jennie

Our grown children live far away. One is on the east coast and one is on the west coast. Between them we have five wonderful grandchildren. Whenever they visit, it is special. Here I am with the west coast gang. … Continue reading →

Posted in Family, Love, Nature | Tagged , , , | 74 Comments

Making History Come Alive For Children – Part 3

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Jennie

History is an abstract concept for children, so if I can link something tangible – like me – to history, perhaps they can have an understanding. At the end of the school year we read non-fiction chapter books.  Little House on … Continue reading →

Posted in books, chapter reading, Early Education, Family, Gloria, history, Inspiration, literacy, preschool, reading aloud, reading aloud, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , , | 46 Comments

Gloria Goes to Missouri – Part 2

Posted on May 11, 2025 by Jennie

Awww…just look at that smile! Gloria arrived back home with much fanfare.  There’s nothing like welcoming a best friend after a long trip.  We learned that Missouri has cows.  Lots of cows.  So, included in Gloria’s welcome home box was … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Family, geography, Giving thanks, Gloria, history, Inspiration, joy, Kindness, Love, School, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , , , , | 61 Comments

Family Photo Collages

Posted on January 6, 2025 by Jennie

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

The Best Christmas Ad – My Favorite

Posted on December 24, 2024 by Jennie

I will share this Christmas ad every year, because… it’s that good. Christmas is about family and friends. It’s a time to smile and remember. Yes, remember. Because in the end, it’s our memories that stick with us. That’s what … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Family, Inspiration, joy, Love, music, wonder | Tagged , , | 74 Comments

Thanksgiving

Posted on November 28, 2024 by Jennie

Happy Thanksgiving Children spread happiness, naturally and genuinely. It’s a reminder for us. This post from a few years ago says it all. Our gigantic turkey From my school to your house, may you enjoy a turkey dinner with family … Continue reading →

Posted in America, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Kindness, preschool, Thanksgiving | Tagged , , | 69 Comments

You Belong!

Posted on November 7, 2024 by Jennie

At school, we have a theme song each year.  This year it is “You Belong!”, a perfect song to let children know that – no matter what – we all belong.  It has become our ‘wake-up song’.  When nap is … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, Diversity, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Giving, Heart, Inspiration, Kindness, Quotes, self esteem, Singing, wonder | Tagged , , , | 72 Comments

A Magical Evening at School

Posted on October 15, 2024 by Jennie

Tonight was magical!  Eating a pizza dinner together was a great way for families to get to know each other in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.  Children played, parents laughed, and teachers smiled.  Thank you, Aqua Room families! When dinner … Continue reading →

Posted in Family, Halloween, Inspiration, jack-o-lanterns, wonder | Tagged , , | 54 Comments

Ghosts, Angels, and Spirits

Posted on June 27, 2024 by Jennie

Yes, I am a believer.  Perhaps because I have the heart of a child, I can openly see and feel.  All it takes is an encounter with a ghost or a spirit, and one cannot deny their existence.  I have … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Family, Inspiration, Peace, wonder | Tagged , , , , | 80 Comments

Giving Thanks – Teacher to Teacher, Blogger to Blogger, Friend to Friend

Posted on May 13, 2024 by Jennie

Let me tell you about my friend Pete Springer- fellow blogger, teacher, and dear friend.  He is a retired teacher with all the ‘right stuff’ when it comes to understanding children.  He visited my classroom a few years ago (which … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Family, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Kindness, teaching | Tagged , , , | 147 Comments