No doubt the “plans” for the 2020-21 school year involve some sort of social distancing. And I can’t help but visualize what gross-motor development in early childhood would look like under these conditions. We all know that littles don’t have a firm grasp of where their body is in the space around them. Watching them…
Summer is heating up, my teacher friends! Here in North Carolina, it’s so humid outside it feels like you’re trying to breathe mayonnaise. That’s why it’s nice to settle down in the air conditioning with little ones, a popsicle, and some super summer read alouds! Check out these suggestions guaranteed to make children (and you)…
This Wednesday, July 1, is International Joke Day. Of all years, I think we could use a good joke or two during this one! Laughter is good for the soul—and it turns out that it really is the best medicine, relieving tension and stress plus helping your body produce its own natural painkillers. So in…
I remember encountering racist situations when I was in school. I didn’t know what to say or what to do. Should I call out the racism? Should I just walk away? I didn’t know how to help and I was frozen like a deer in headlights. And that’s why it’s important to give children a…
As you probably know, Father’s Day is coming up on June 21st! That’s a throw-back photo of my Dad and me at my grandmother’s house. Although the crazy perm I have going on is a bit distracting, you can definitely tell we’re related. Father’s Day is a great day to honor the men in our…
Recent events in the U.S. have reminded me how important it is that we have character education in our schools—and it needs to begin when children are very young. Empathy, kindness, trustworthiness, honesty, and compassion are more than important traits—they’re necessary for a productive society. Check out these activities on character education! Help students understand…
It seems like a lot of friends on social media are complaining of insomnia lately. I’ve had some issues with it myself. And honestly, it isn’t surprising with all that’s going on in the world right now. If I get into bed and begin thinking about weighty topics then sleep is a lost cause. This…
When we go back to school in the fall, there will no doubt be changes. I’m guessing that one of the changes we encounter will be an emphasis on social distancing. I can’t even wrap my brain around how that’s going to be accomplished. But let’s say that the six foot social distance rule is…
Across the street from my home lives a family with two young children. Normally, I don’t see them outside that much. But in quarantine they’re out in their yard pretty much all day, weather permitting. I see them running and playing and generally having a great time. I’ve seen evidence from my Facebook friends that…
Tuesday, May 12 is International Nurses Day! Nurses truly save lives. And in our current pandemic situation they deserve more thanks than we can give them. Tomorrow, have young students draw pictures and compose thank you cards to nurses. Have older students complete this Florence Nightingale passage and questions. It’s not a coincidence that May…