Category Archives: Inspiration

A Tale of Two Dale Chihuly’s – Part 1

Posted on February 17, 2021 by Jennie

Dale Chihuly’s glass art is magnificent.  I have been fortunate to see two of his blown glass sculptures, each with a different story that inspired me in unexpected ways. “It happened like this…” The first Chihuly I saw was at … Continue reading →

Posted in art, books, children's books, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, museums, Peace, Poetry, preschool, The Arts | Tagged , , , , , , , | 77 Comments

“Love Bugs” All Over Town

Posted on February 14, 2021 by Jennie

My wonderful co-teacher, Heidi, worked with the children to make “Love Bugs” and deliver them all over town.  Children loved spreading kindness and love for Valentine’s Day.  Here is what we wrote to families, along with photos.  Look at those … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Kindness, Love | 86 Comments

Valentines and Love

Posted on February 13, 2021 by Jennie

~Valentines~ A gift, a symbol of love. I received many today. Gloria did, too. In the words of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, “All You Need is Love.” Jennie

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Gloria, Inspiration, Kindness, Love, music, picture books, Quotes, Singing, The Arts, The Beatles | Tagged , , , , , , , | 60 Comments

A Children’s Book, Especially For Today – by Maya Angelou

Posted on February 11, 2021 by Jennie

My Painted House, My Friendly Chicken, and Me Did you know that Maya Angelou wrote a children’s book?  She did, back in 1994.  I have been reading her book to my preschoolers long before I really knew of her. I … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, books, children's books, Diversity, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, picture books, Quotes, self esteem, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , | 85 Comments

Snow Smiles

Posted on February 4, 2021 by Jennie

Children and teachers discovered smiles in the snow overhanging the roof.  No one knows who made it.  We were the first to play on the playground and delight in the deep new snow.  Thank you to the mystery artist and … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Giving, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Uncategorized | Tagged , , | 67 Comments

Sue Vincent, “A Child’s Tale”

Posted on February 2, 2021 by Jennie

I am reposting Sue Vincent’s outstanding blog post on children, reading, writing, and the depth of meaning that only Sue can truly understand and express.  Her timeless wisdom compares to C.S. Lewis.  Thank you, Sue.  You have touched me and … Continue reading →

Posted in books, children's books, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, reading, wonder | Tagged , , , , | 60 Comments

“Amanda in Holland: Missing in Action”

Posted on February 1, 2021 by Jennie

Look what arrived today! Amanda in Holland: Missing in Action by Darlene Foster Just the book I’ve been wanting to read. And, what a perfect day to curl up with a new book. It’s snowing to beat the band outside. … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, books, chapter reading, children's books, Inspiration, reading | Tagged , , , | 46 Comments

Robots! An Unexpected S.T.E.M. Moment in Preschool

Posted on January 22, 2021 by Jennie

S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is ‘on the list’ for educators.  America has been playing catch-up. Preschoolers?  Yes, they love science and exploring.  Yes, they love their devices.  Yes, they love building and figuring it out.  Yes, they love … Continue reading →

Posted in Dogs, Inspiration, Math, music, preschool, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , | 84 Comments

When Gloria Was Away…

Posted on January 16, 2021 by Jennie

In case you were wondering where Gloria was and what she was doing during our big school move and also our holiday break; she was with a child and his family.  They sent me this email today: Hey Jennie, We … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, Diversity, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Gloria, Inspiration, joy, Kindness, Love, preschool | Tagged , , , , , | 58 Comments

Welcome Back, Gloria

Posted on January 14, 2021 by Jennie

Gloria is back in the classroom.  She has a new stool, which she loves.  She is close to the children and all the action.  She can look out of the windows when we’re on the playground.  Of course the children … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, Diversity, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Gloria, Inspiration, joy, preschool, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , | 71 Comments