Hi Friend! From very early on in life kids learn that one thing follows another. Young children come to recognize patterns and routines that help make the world more predictable for them. Parents establish routines at home for bedtime; first we brush teeth, then we read a book, and finally lights out! (it’s that easy, right??😉) Teachers set routines for the school day so students know what to expect and what is expected of them. As … [Read more...]
Differentiating Instruction in the Elementary Classroom
Let's take it back...way back... back to the one-room schoolhouse. A time where one teacher had students of all ages in a single classroom and was faced with the daily challenge of meeting each of their individual needs. It's here where we find the roots of differentiated instruction! So while we may have swapped out chalkboards for Smartboards and rows of desks for flexible seating arrangements, one thing remains the same...there is still a … [Read more...]
How to get Your Students Begging to Write!
Hello Friend! Are your students reluctant to write? Do they struggle to get started because they don't know what to write? Are your students unable to sustain a level of independence at a writing center? Do they make writing progress with a scaffold of support? If you can answer yes to any of the above questions, I have some proven, effective strategies for you that you can implement in your classroom tomorrow! I promise, … [Read more...]
Teaching Thankfulness in the Primary Classroom
No matter what your age, two little words go such a long way. Thank you. Teaching thankfulness in the primary classroom through not only words but actions has so many benefits for our students from character development to overall well-being. When kids can show appreciation for what they have and for those around them, they’ll feel happier. Here are some ways to teach thankfulness in the primary grades. Write a happiness list. Invite … [Read more...]
Writing Picture Prompts
Hello Friends! Writing is one of my favorite things to teach. I am always entertained by the stories students choose to share and love to see the creative ways they find to express their thoughts and ideas. But just because I love to teach it, doesn't mean all of my students have always loved to do it. Like all teachers, I have students who have difficulty choosing a topic and/or getting started on a piece. Many find it hard to write … [Read more...]
The Writing Process {ideas & a freebie!)
Hello Friend! Do you love teaching writing as much as I do? Let's talk the writing process! Our primary students have so many stories to tell. Have your students ever walked in your door in the morning eager to tell you a story? Mine do, EVERY.SINGLE.DAY. Writer's Workshop is such a great way to let them do just so. I love hearing their stories and letting them have the chance to speak through their writing. I love that my first graders … [Read more...]
