Category Archives: Gloria

The Story of Emma (and ‘Ariel’)

Posted on February 6, 2024 by Jennie

Some students stick with you, and some stick with you like glue.  That would be Emma.  This is the story of Emma, a child who thrived in the Aqua Room, and returned on occasion to visit.  Her journey is heartwarming … Continue reading →

Posted in children's books, Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Giving thanks, Gloria, Inspiration, literacy, music, play performances, reading aloud, Singing, Student alumni, Teaching young children, The Arts | Tagged , , , | 96 Comments

Gloria’s Journal and Many Adventures

Posted on January 14, 2024 by Jennie

It’s a new school year for Gloria, and she has spent most weekends with a child.  Her adventures on weekends have been delightful.  Reading her journal to children is always exciting. Back in the beginning of Gloria in the Aqua … Continue reading →

Posted in Diversity, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Gloria, Inspiration, Kindness, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 91 Comments

Gloria’s Sleepover At My House

Posted on January 3, 2024 by Jennie

Gloria has been everywhere this year – except with me.  She had a sleepover at my house last night!  When it was time for her to go to bed, she wanted a story (of course), so I read to her … Continue reading →

Posted in books, children's books, Diversity, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Gloria, Inspiration, picture books, reading aloud, reading aloud | Tagged , , | 75 Comments

Love

Posted on December 3, 2023 by Jennie

I wore this heart pin to school today.  I needed to wear it, and I knew what would happen.  Children asked me about the pin. “Jennie, I love your heart.” “Thank you.  I  do, too.  Do you know why I … Continue reading →

Posted in books, children's books, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Gloria, Inspiration, Love, preschool, Singing, storytelling, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , | 82 Comments

Gloria and the College Football Player

Posted on November 19, 2023 by Jennie

Gloria has been away every weekend.  Her adventures have been numerous, and what she brings to children cannot be measured.  I will post her journal excerpts after Thanksgiving.  In the meantime, I have to share one of my favorite photos: … Continue reading →

Posted in Diversity, Early Education, Gloria, Imagination, Inspiration, Kindness, Love, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , | 66 Comments

Halloween At School

Posted on October 31, 2023 by Jennie

~Happy Halloween~ Today at school was a Day in the Dark. Children wore pajamas. Gloria did, too. We played with glow sticks and black playdoh on tin foil. We built with MagnaTiles creating structures that housed light. We painted with … Continue reading →

Posted in Giving, Gloria, Halloween, Imagination, Inspiration, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , | 64 Comments

24 Hours Later…

Posted on October 20, 2023 by Jennie

It’s been 24 hours since I posted my brief letter to families about inviting Gloria home for a weekend Gloria and the President  She is now ‘booked’ through Thanksgiving, including going Trick-Or-Treating and being at Thanksgiving dinner.  24 hours.  Bless you, … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Giving, Gloria, Teaching young children | Tagged | 50 Comments

Gloria’s Debut, and a Letter to Parents

Posted on October 12, 2023 by Jennie

I’m always a bit nervous with excitement when Gloria makes her ‘debut’ in the classroom.  I know the children will welcome her because every year she is loved from Day One.  Today was no exception.  Frankly, it was wonderful.  She … Continue reading →

Posted in Diversity, Early Education, Gloria, Inspiration, School, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 79 Comments

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

Sam the Eagle Scout

Posted on July 1, 2023 by Jennie

Sam was my preschooler many years ago.  He always had a smile and enjoyed playing with friends.  Sam’s mother was careful about finding the right preschool for her boy.  When she visited the public library, she found The Groton ABC … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Giving thanks, Gloria, Inspiration, Kindness, self esteem, teaching, wonder | Tagged , , | 59 Comments