Has being kind to others become unfashionable, unhip, or uncool? Sometimes it feels that way, doesn’t it? It’s easy to get so wrapped up in the pressures of daily life that being kind to others slips through the cracks. However, when kindness becomes a habit, it doesn’t slip. It becomes something you do without even…
Happy November all! Did you know that November is Picture Book Month? I love this celebration for many reasons. I love me some picture books. I love holding picture books. I love reading picture books. I love the artistry of picture books. I love sharing picture books. (Yes, I could go on and on…) More…
You’ve heard of Puxatawny Phil, the groundhog that supposedly forecasts the coming of spring. But have you heard of the woolly worm, or woolly bear, as it is sometimes called? Last week two colleagues of mine discovered some woolly worms hanging around outside our office. Just so you know, woolly worms aren’t actually worms at…
October is a great time to let a few monsters into your classroom. I’ve rounded up three of my favorite monster books along with a few of my fave monster activities from themailbox.com. Wishing you a monstrously great time! Diane
Next Wednesday, October 17, 2018, is National Fossil Day. Now I’m talkin’ about the remains or impressions of prehistoric organisms, not cantankerous old fossils. I’m sure today’s youth view me as an old fossil, however, hopefully not a cantankerous one! In celebration of National Fossil Day, I’m hooking you up with some nifty resources. Fortunately,…
It’s Fire Prevention Week (October 7–13, 2018)! This year’s theme is “Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere.” The National Fire Protection Association reports that at-home fires are resulting in more deaths than in previous decades. Please take time to educate your students about three basic and essential steps (see below) that can…
Happy October, all! I just love first Fridays, don’t you? This month I’ve rounded up some fab-for-fall goodies to give away. I have colorful leaf-shaped foam stickers, foam cutouts in fall shapes, and a fall-themed craft value pack that includes wiggly eyes, pipe cleaners, and pom-poms. There’s also a pack of Thanksgiving-themed activity placemats that…
Yes, this blog is cat themed. This doesn’t mean you need to be a cat person. It just means I have some super cute cat-themed activities for you! You see, September is Happy Cat Month. I almost let this feline celebration slip through the cracks. The good news is that cat-themed activities are appropriate for…
You have to love a guy who spent much of his lifetime planting apple seeds, who loved animals, and who respected Native Americans. This coming Wednesday, September 26, is that guy’s birthday and his name is John Chapman aka Johnny Appleseed. Set the tone for a special day with the following circle time tune. I’ve…
Ahoy, mateys! It’s Talk Like a Pirate Day and I’ve secured ye some booty. Arrr! Since 2002, Talk Like a Pirate Day has been celebrated on September 19. While some folks may not favor the day—it is true that real pirates are nothing to be adored—the day is a fun excuse to add some swashbuckle…