Category Archives: Inspiration

Sam the Eagle Scout

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

Book Bears, Library Reading, and a Pleading Letter

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

Over the Rainbow, Under the Water

To the five survivors of the submarine braving great depths in the ocean to explore the Titanic, today there were rainbows in the water in my pool. Underwater rainbows. You have crossed the underwater Rainbow Bridge. Bless you. Jennie

Posted in Death and dying, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Nature, wonder | Tagged , , , | 29 Comments

Rainbows

Rainbows don’t appear often.  Every one is exciting. This rainbow appeared this evening. I thought it was brilliant, but no. The grandaddy of rainbows was right behind. He was brilliant.  And, he grew… …and grew, into a vibrance of color, … Continue reading

Posted in Inspiration, Nature, wonder | Tagged , | 85 Comments

Reflections on a Wonderful Year at School

Today was the last day of school for children. There were tears, hugs, resistance, and a multitude of emotions from children and families. It’s hard to say good-bye and thank you, all at the same time. Two families thanked me … Continue reading

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Family, Giving thanks, Inspiration, preschool, School, Teaching young children | Tagged , | 54 Comments

Chapter Reading Throughout the School Year

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

Roots and Wings, They’re Now More Important Than Ever

Tonight is the first night of thunderstorms.  I’m thrilled, because I sit on my porch to listen and watch as the storms unfold.  As I type, I hear rumbles.  I have always loved thunderstorms.  Growing up in the Ohio River … Continue reading

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, Mother Nature, Nature, self esteem, wonder | Tagged , | 74 Comments

Remember Sam?

Perhaps this was the best Memorial Day photo. Remember Sam? https://jenniefitzkee.com/2023/03/30/what-would-mr-ro…rue-story-of-sam/ He was the child who needed to talk, and to have someone listen to him.  Really listen. Sam loves the military, so when Master Sergeant Michael Kennedy spoke at … Continue reading

Posted in America, behavior, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, military, patriotism, Teaching young children | 40 Comments

Never Forget…

Memorial Day is a day to honor and remember the brave men and women in our military who have died. It is also a day to thank those who serve. Never forget to thank a soldier or a sailor. Never … Continue reading

Posted in America, American flag, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, military, patriotism, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 53 Comments

How “Goodnight Moon” Evolves Each School Year

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