Category Archives: Inspiration

The Flights To and From LA – Book Stories

Posted on October 12, 2021 by Jennie

My flight to LA to appear on the Kelly Clarkson Show was packed.  I was in the three-seat section along with a nice young couple.  After a few hours in the air, it was apparent that she was pregnant.  He … Continue reading →

Posted in books, chapter reading, children's books, Early Education, Inspiration, literacy, music, preschool, reading aloud, reading aloud, School | Tagged , , , , , , , | 61 Comments

The Kelly Clarkson Show – And Me

Posted on October 4, 2021 by Jennie

Everything people say is true.  Kelly Clarkson is genuine.  She’s as nice as the day is long.  She is all about others (not herself), and so much fun. I know.  I am on her show tomorrow- in person with Kelly. … Continue reading →

Posted in children's books, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, literacy, reading aloud, reading aloud, School | Tagged , , , , , | 136 Comments

1-800-Viola Swamp

Posted on October 1, 2021 by Jennie

Over the past few days, many bloggers have been reading an older post, one of my favorites.  Every day in the classroom is not always a good day.  Humor to the rescue.  I hope you enjoy reading this post as … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, children's books, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, picture books, preschool, reading aloud, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , | 53 Comments

The Most Important Things in Life

Posted on September 22, 2021 by Jennie

Bottom line = times have changed, but children have not.  What they need and want is the same as it has always been.  Academics are one thing, but in order to get there, children have to be grounded in the … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, books, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, self esteem, teaching, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , | 115 Comments

Starting the School Year Reading Charlotte’s Web

Posted on September 16, 2021 by Jennie

Every year I start chapter reading with my preschool class on ‘day one’.  And, the first book I read is Charlotte’s Web.  We have barely had three weeks of school and children are totally hooked.  They adore Wilbur and laugh at … Continue reading →

Posted in chapter reading, children's books, E.B. White, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, Learning About the World, reading aloud, reading aloud, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 72 Comments

9/11 and Kindness Peace and Love Day at School

Posted on September 11, 2021 by Jennie

Honoring 9/11 at school is Kindness, Peace, and Love Day.  It has been twenty years since that tragic day in September, and for children it is a day to remember the heroes.  How do we help young children honor the … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, Kindness, Love, music, Peace | Tagged , , , | 64 Comments

The Start of a New Year at School – Part 2

Posted on September 8, 2021 by Jennie

In Part 1, I talked about welcoming children to a new year at school. Part 2 This is the really important piece – The Teacher.  What a teacher brings to children and the classroom makes all the difference in the world.  … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, joy, School, teaching, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , | 85 Comments

The Start of a New Year at School – Part 1

Posted on September 5, 2021 by Jennie

When children come to school next week, they will be greeted at the front entrance by this hand painted dove.  I can’t imagine anything more welcoming for children than walking across this threshold to start their day at school. This … Continue reading →

Posted in art, children's books, Early Education, Inspiration, picture books, preschool, reading aloud, School, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , | 109 Comments

History Through a Classic Picture Book – The Little House

Posted on August 27, 2021 by Jennie

Last night as the sun was setting, the house next door was getting sleepy.  Just look at those window eyes closing and getting ready to say goodnight.  They reminded me of a favorite picture book, “The Little House” by Virginia … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, children's books, Early Education, history, Inspiration, picture books, reading aloud, reading aloud, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , | 87 Comments

My New Books Arrived

Posted on August 24, 2021 by Jennie

Look what just arrived in the mail today! Jennie

Posted in books, Giving thanks, Inspiration, reading | Tagged , , , | 58 Comments