What is the first book you read aloud to your students on the first day of school? In the past, my go-to picture book has been First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg. However, that book’s popularity has soared immensely in the past few years and many of the students are familiar with it. There’s nothing wrong with reading it to… Read More
Books for the End of the School Year
The end of the school year can be filled with a variety of emotions. You are bound to find students who feel joy, sadness, and even fear about the school year ending. I always turn to books to help students cope with whatever they are feeling in that moment. Here are several books your students might enjoy at the end… Read More
Picture Books for Kids Who Interrupt
Spring in the classroom is an interesting time. Not only are students blooming and growing with their learning, but they are also becoming more like a family. And like any family, there are bound to be a few things that start to get on your nerves. One thing that always seems to pop up every spring is students who interrupt…. Read More
St. Patrick’s Day Books for Kids
Between the leprechauns and the elusive search for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, there’s no denying that kids get excited about St. Patrick’s Day! As teachers, it’s important to build upon that excitement and interest. I love to do that through literature. Here are some great books to read with your students near St. Patrick’s Day…. Read More
How Santa Lost His Job (Opinion Writing and Craft)
Can you imagine what would happen if Santa lost his job? Stephen Krensky has done just that with How Santa Lost His Job. Here is an opinion writing activity and craft you can use with your students after reading this book. About the Book In the story, there is always a last-minute rush before Christmas. An elf named Muckle takes it… Read More
How Santa Got His Job (Anchor Chart Freebie)
Do you know how Santa got his job? Stephen Krensky does and he shares the details in his story, How Santa Got His Job. After reading the story, I talk to my students about the qualities that make Santa the right person for the job. Now you can do the same and create an anchor chart to use with your students…. Read More





