Category Archives: Inspiration

The Joy of Teaching – Moments

Since we’re learning about France, we sing the ‘Days of the Week’ song in French.  Children are excited to add new words – real words in a foreign language – to a song they already know. The ‘Helper of the … Continue reading

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, School, Singing, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 69 Comments

Keep Smiling and Stay Warm – Olaf!

March is going out like a lion, not a lamb. Here’s how to keep smiling and stay warm on the playground at school: Thank goodness for my Olaf hat! Jennie

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, Nature, young children | Tagged , , , | 51 Comments

The Compass Rose

                                  “Jennie, what’s that? Those three words are music to my ears, because it means there will be a new journey to discovery.  When … Continue reading

Posted in Early Education, geography, Inspiration, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 73 Comments

More Music and Art – and Why I Teach

Music has been a great inspiration, and children have truly created wonderful works of art. When I think of classical music inspiring children I immediately think of the renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma playing for Mr. Rogers. This video clip speaks … Continue reading

Posted in art, Imagination, Inspiration, music, Teaching young children, The Arts, Uncategorized, wonder | Tagged , , , , , , , | 92 Comments

Music Inspires Art

Children are painting in earnest, working on their own masterpieces, preparing for our annual Art Show.  We have studied Van Gogh, Picasso, Kandinsky, Monet and Matisse.  The range of art is as diverse as the interests of the children.  That’s … Continue reading

Posted in art, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, music, Quotes, Teaching young children, The Arts, The Beatles | Tagged , , , , , , , | 108 Comments

Mystery Missing Photo

Some bloggers were not able to see the photo of Gloria’s last journal entry (over two years ago) in my recent blog post.  She went to Disney on Ice and to Gymnastics!  Gee, I wish I had her social schedule.  … Continue reading

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Gloria, Inspiration, Teaching young children | Tagged | 34 Comments

Things Happen in Threes

Things certainly do happen in threes.  This week: 1)   The mask mandate at school was lifted. 2)  Gloria will now be allowed to go home with children for weekend visits.  Her last visit was two years ago.  This is her … Continue reading

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Gloria, Inspiration, preschool, School, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , | 56 Comments

Four Seasons of the Wishtree – Photos Framed

At last, photos of our Wishtree in every season are framed and gifted to school. Spring was the beginning.  The wishes are bright and new against a bare tree. Summer’s deep foliage cannot hide the wishes. Fall’s colors are beautiful, … Continue reading

Posted in art, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, Nature, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , | 39 Comments

Goodnight Moon – In French, Too

We are having a grand time in school learning about France.  Since we’re now singing the Days of the Week in French, I thought it would be fun to read our beloved “Goodnight Moon” (recited every day before chapter reading) … Continue reading

Posted in children's books, Early Education, Inspiration, reading aloud | Tagged , , | 73 Comments

Blogger of the Week

I am honored to be the featured ‘Blogger of the Week’ over at Mitch Teemley’s blog.  He is terrific!  He tells the best stories, and has  humor and a heart that will make you want to know this blogger. When … Continue reading

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Jim Trelease, storytelling, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 48 Comments