Category Archives: Teaching young children

The Story of Art – My Journey With Juliet

Posted on October 2, 2023 by Jennie

I write this journey backwards in time, as it tells a better story. Juliet, fourteen years later. Juliet noticed everything.  She loved to draw, and her pictures were detailed and beautiful.  Little did I know she had paid attention to … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Inspiration, museums, Peace, quilting, Teaching young children, The Arts | Tagged , , , | 67 Comments

I Was There!

Posted on September 27, 2023 by Jennie

I was at the library the same day he was. It was his birthday, six years old at last, which means he can get his very own library card. He did! Look at his enormous smile. I was his preschool … Continue reading →

Posted in books, chapter reading, children's books, Inspiration, literacy, reading, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , , , | 74 Comments

My Summer Book Reading

Posted on September 21, 2023 by Jennie

My summer book reading was absolutely wonderful. Not only were the books terrific, the collection was broad, from picture books to chapter reading, to books for much older children (and adults.) Can I pick a favorite?  Absolutely not. Sea Dog, … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, books, children's books, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , , | 76 Comments

Oscar the Otter, Pete Springer, and the Big Get Well Letter

Posted on September 16, 2023 by Jennie

Two things happened at the same time; fellow blogger Pete Springer received a pacemaker, and school began.  Here’s the connection- Pete visited my class two years ago all the way from California, and gifted the children Oscar the Otter.  It … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, preschool, School, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 74 Comments

Books to Read on 9/11

Posted on September 11, 2023 by Jennie

On this day, 9/11, we must remember the tragedy.  We must never forget the bravery of firefighters and police officers, and so many people who stopped their lives to do the right thing.  There are stories to help us remember. … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, books, children's books, history, patriotism, picture books, reading, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 38 Comments

School – Day One

Posted on September 6, 2023 by Jennie

I tossed and turned the night before school, as I always do every year. Will I remember the children I met last week? Will they remember me? Will we connect? I walked into school smiling at our Peace Dove. I … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, Love, music, Peace, preschool, School, Singing, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 79 Comments

Summer Reading

Posted on September 5, 2023 by Jennie

As I was starting a blog post on the books I have read this summer, a parent sent me this photo: Two former students, one reading to the other – while at the pool! This photo is far more important … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Inspiration, literacy, preschool, reading, reading aloud, reading aloud, teaching, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 52 Comments

My Song Follow-Up Story

Posted on August 23, 2023 by Jennie

In my last blog post, I included a favorite song I sing with children, “The Sun and the Rain Make a Rainbow.”  I searched through YouTube to find the song- nothing.  So, I just sang it myself.  Fellow blogger Debby … Continue reading →

Posted in Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, preschool, Singing, Teaching young children, young children | Tagged , , | 73 Comments

God Bless America – Twelve Years Later

Posted on July 18, 2023 by Jennie

I stopped by school last week, which is currently in Summer Camp mode.  High school volunteers are a welcome and fun part of the group.  What happened was delightful: First I was mobbed by children (always wonderful), then Jess, a … Continue reading →

Posted in America, Expressing words and feelings, history, Inspiration, museums, music, patriotism, quilting, School, Student alumni, summer camp, Teaching young children, The Arts, wonder | Tagged , , , , , | 50 Comments

Reflections on a Wonderful Year at School

Posted on June 14, 2023 by Jennie

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