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Goal Setting Mistakes to Avoid

Teachers and students often set goals at the start of a new year. However, just because those goals are set doesn't offer a guarantee that they will be met. In fact, there are many mistakes teachers and students can make on their goal setting journey. These mistakes might leave everyone feeling discouraged or frustrated, which leads to abandoning those goals altogether. Here are some goal setting mistakes to avoid in the classroom.

Children’s Books about Manners

Whether you work with small children or have kids of your own, you want them to use good manners. While leading by example is one of the best ways to teach children how to behave in various situations, books can also be a great tool. Here are some children's books about manners that might help.

Idea Jar Activities

"I don't know what to write!" Have you ever heard this before? I'm guessing you have. So, how can we help young writers when they are stuck for inspiration? It's time to try these Idea Jar activities!

Different Versions of Little Red Riding Hood

The story of Little Red Riding Hood has been a staple in homes and classrooms for decades. But, did you know that many authors have adapted the story? Some books represent different cultures from around the world, while others just put a humorous twist on the original. Whether you're reading these stories to compare and contrast or just for fun, here are some of my favorite versions of Little Red Riding Hood.

Declutter Your Classroom Library

The classroom library is an important part of your classroom. Teachers spend time, money, and energy building a place where students want to settle in and get lost in stories. But sometimes we forget that the library also needs to be decluttered. It can be hard to get rid of books, but it must be done. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you begin to declutter your library.

Counting Coins Games and Activities

Learning to count coins doesn't have to be boring! Here are some fun ways to practice counting coins.

Picture Book Biographies

You know I love picture books. But, you might not know that I have been slowly building my collection of picture book biographies over the past few years. I love this format for kids because they are accessible to so many readers, packed with interesting information, and often filled with colorful illustrations. Here are some of our favorite picture book biographies.

The Legend of Rock, Paper, Scissors Activities

When kids must decide who goes first, they often turn to a quick game of Rock Paper Scissors. But have you ever wondered how that game got started? Drew Daywalt and Adam Rex teamed up to offer a humorous take on the game. Here are a few activities to pair with The Legend of Rock, Paper, Scissors.

Children’s Books About Pets

Most kids love the idea of having a pet of their very own. Pets can bring so much joy to a family, but they are also a big responsibility. Sharing children's books about pets is a great way to get started. Here are some of my favorite pet books for kids. You'll find books about more traditional pets (dogs, cats, and goldfish), along with some lovable and humorous books about some unexpected pets (sharks, elephants, giraffes, and more).

End of the Year Writing Crafts

You've spent months teaching, building community, and watching your students grow in many ways. You've worked so hard and now it's time to finish the school year in a fun way with these end of the year writing crafts! These are a great tool to use as students reflect on the school year and get ready for summer break.

Fun Ways to Practice Doubles

When students have a solid understanding of their doubles facts, it enables them to work on other mental math strategies. In order to do this, kids need many opportunities to practice these math facts. Here are some fun ways to practice doubles.

Children’s Books That Inspire Creativity

Do you want your kids to spend less time in front of a screen and more time getting creative? Books can help them get started. Here are some of my favorite children's books that inspire creativity.

Reasons to Read Aloud to Big Kids

Emilie Buchwald said, "Children are made readers on the laps of their parents." But reading aloud to a child doesn't need to stop once they have outgrown your lap. There are many academic and emotional benefits that come along with reading books to your kids as they get older. Here are several reasons why you should read aloud to big kids.

Robot Books for Kids

Do you know a child who is fascinated by robots? One who dreams of creating a robot to do all of their chores or to help their community? Keep encouraging that creativity and excitement with these robot books for kids.

Telling Time Games and Activities

Telling time can be tricky for kids, especially in a world where digital clocks are everywhere. Learning to tell time on an analog clock is an important skill, but it doesn't have to be boring. Here are some fun games and activities to help your child with telling time.