Category Archives: Inspiration

Music Makes the 4th of July

Posted on July 4, 2022 by Jennie

The 4th of July – America’s declaration of independence.  I teach children about the American flag, and patriotism.  It’s important.  Best of all, children often lead the way.  Their interests are the springboard for the best learning. The 4th of … Continue reading →

Posted in Teaching young children, patriotism, music, Singing, Inspiration, Giving thanks, America | Tagged , , , | 40 Comments

My Summer Children

Posted on July 1, 2022 by Jennie

My garden is my summer children.  I take care of the flowers just like I take care of children.  Every year the flowers are different, and I don’t know why.  Mother Nature has her own agenda.  Every year children are … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, Mother Nature, Nature, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 75 Comments

Gloria’s Summer Adventure – With Oscar

Posted on June 26, 2022 by Jennie

Gloria is spending time at my house until she ‘heads to Maine’ for her annual summer retreat. “Jennie, can Oscar come. too?  He really wants to spend the summer with me.” “Of course he can, Gloria.” The first day was … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, Diversity, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Gloria, Imagination, Inspiration, Love, wonder | Tagged , , , , , | 69 Comments

Knuckleheads

Posted on June 24, 2022 by Jennie

Look what arrived today! Knuckleheads, by Dan Antion Summer reading, here I come! Jennie

Posted in books, Inspiration, literacy, reading | Tagged , , | 76 Comments

The Final Letter

Posted on June 23, 2022 by Jennie

As soon as the school year is over and the dust has settled, my final letter to families is a reflection of the school year.  It takes families through the highlights so they can relive those moments and classroom experiences … Continue reading →

Posted in American flag, art, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, preschool, School, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 72 Comments

“The” Invitation From a Former Student

Posted on June 19, 2022 by Jennie

I got an invitation most every teacher dreams about.  But first I need to tell you about this student: I remember my students.  I love them.  Some stick with me more than others, and Colin was one of those students.  … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, joy, Love, music, play performances, Singing, Student alumni, The Arts | Tagged , , , | 107 Comments

‘Donut Party’ and Much More

Posted on June 17, 2022 by Jennie

We had our year-end event with families this week.  It was the first time in two years that families, children, and teachers were all together.  It was wonderful.  Children called it the ‘Donut Party’, because they knew doughnuts would be … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Inspiration, Love, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 78 Comments

The Last Day, and She Won’t Go Home

Posted on June 15, 2022 by Jennie

Today was the last day of school for children.  There were floods of tears from children, and also parents.  Hugs were like the jaws of life.  Pick-up on the playground at the end of the day was emotional for everyone. … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, Kindness, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 82 Comments

A Year of Chapter Reading, 2022

Posted on June 11, 2022 by Jennie

Here is my newsletter to parents about our year of chapter reading.  It’s the best part of the day in the classroom. Chapter Reading June 10, 2022 Chapter reading is one of our treasured moments of the day.  We bring … Continue reading →

Posted in chapter reading, children's books, Early Education, Inspiration, literacy, reading aloud, reading aloud, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 48 Comments

A Package From the White House!

Posted on June 9, 2022 by Jennie

My class loves singing, and this year “God Bless America” has been a favorite song.  How do I know?  Children sing it from the loft in the classroom, and when using the bathroom.  They sing it while building with toys, … Continue reading →

Posted in America, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, military, patriotism, quilting, School, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 75 Comments