Today I wanted to spotlight some of my class favorite read alouds. I like my students to hear stories that engage their minds and emotions, make them laugh, or touch their heart. They will often refer to these stories and characters throughout the year as we make connections to other stories they read in class. One of our beloved characters is Strega Nona created by Tomie dePaola. Each year, I launch our first author study about…
What’s the difference between enabling our students versus empowering them? It was a thought-provoking question asked at a conference I attended. For some, the words are synonymous. For those with a background in psychology, there were clear differences. To be an enabler means you are providing support to another person who is unable to function successfully on their own. It is a co-dependent relationship. It is the enabler who knows what to do. Someone who is…
Happy Tuesday! I hope you are enjoying your summer. Did you know some of our teaching colleagues will be back in the classroom very soon? With that in mind, I am happy to offer 2 of my popular resources at half price today {Tuesday}. Morning Work for First Graders How many times have you taught a concept, only to find out a few days later the kids have no idea what you are talking about? Well,…
I trust you are enjoying your summer break and the change of pace. For me, summer time is not only a time to recharge my batteries, but also a time to reflect upon what I’d like to do better or more effectively in the coming year. I have several places I turn for inspiration: professional books, teacher blogs, and Pinterest! So here are 3 ideas that I am excited to try with my upcoming class: Have…
As educators, we realize how important it is for our students to read outside of the classroom. The challenge for parents is identifying which books are appropriate for their child. As research has shown, when children are reading independently, they should be reading books they can comprehend. Reading books that are too difficult can lead to frustration and do not help the child grow as a reader. Also research supports allowing children to choose their own…
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. A told B and B told C I’ll beat you to the top of the coconut tree! And off you go into the catchy rhythm and rhyme featuring the letters of the alphabet. Kids easily memorize the words and repetition which makes this a fun and educational early story. It’s one of our family favorites! Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin…
Reading a story to your child isn’t just a nice ritual before bedtime. Research has shown that reading aloud to a child is the single most important activity that leads to language development. According to Dr. Betty Bardige, reading aloud to young children not only stimulates language and cognitive skills, it also increases curiosity, memory, and motivation. Children who are read to before attending school have a huge academic advantage compared to those who haven’t had…
