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Sunday

📚 Back to School with Inclusive Picture Books! 🌈

 ðŸ“š Back to School with Inclusive Picture Books! 🌈


As we gear up for a new school year, we need to create a classroom environment that celebrates diversity and fosters inclusivity. One of the most effective ways to do this is through a well-rounded class library filled with engaging picture books. These books not only entertain but also serve as powerful tools that provide mirrors, windows, and sliding doors for every student. Let’s dive into some fantastic picture book units that will make your back-to-school preparations easier and more meaningful!
 The Importance of Inclusive Literature

Inclusive literature is crucial in helping students see themselves in the stories they read while also exposing them to diverse experiences and perspectives. These "mirrors" reflect their own lives, while "windows" allow them to glimpse into the lives of others. "Sliding doors" invite them to step into those experiences, fostering empathy and understanding.
 Picture Book Units to Enhance Your Library

This school year, consider incorporating the following beloved titles into your class library. Each of these books comes with easy-to-use units, perfect for busy days or unexpected absences. Just grab the book and you’re ready to go!

 1. **All Are Welcome**
A vibrant celebration of diversity, this book invites students to join a school community where everyone feels safe and accepted. Its themes of inclusivity make it a perfect starting point for discussions about respect and belonging.

 2. **Happy Dreamer**
In this beautifully illustrated book, children are encouraged to embrace their uniqueness and creativity. It’s a wonderful read for inspiring students to dream big and recognize their potential.

 3. **Just Ask!**
This book teaches children about the importance of kindness and understanding differences. It encourages conversations around disabilities and the importance of inclusivity in our communities.

 4. **The Day You Begin**
This heartfelt story reminds students that it’s okay to feel different and that sharing their stories can connect them with others. It’s a fantastic resource for building community within the classroom.

 5. **How to Read a Book**
An engaging and playful exploration of reading, this book inspires a love for literature in young readers. It’s perfect for introducing students to the joy of reading and storytelling.

6. **If You Take a Mouse to School**
This delightful story follows a mouse on his school adventures and can spark creativity and fun discussions about school life. It’s a lighthearted addition that everyone will enjoy!
 Easy-to-Use Units for Every Occasion

Each of these titles comes with comprehensive teaching units that are ready to implement. Whether you need an engaging lesson plan for a busy day or resources for a substitute teacher, these units will have you covered. Simply have the picture book ready and the accompanying materials on hand, and you’re set for a meaningful lesson!

Start the School Year Right

As you prepare for the upcoming school year, remember that the right picture books can make all the difference. They not only enhance literacy skills but also promote a culture of acceptance and understanding. By including these diverse reads in your class library, you’re setting the stage for a year filled with learning, empathy, and connection.

Let’s kick off the school year with these meaningful reads that inspire, educate, and celebrate every student’s uniqueness! ✨📖

Ready to Build Your Library?
Check out our picture book units today and make this school year the most inclusive and engaging one yet! Happy reading!

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What is design thinking?

What is design thinking?



Design thinking is being creative.  It's about looking at problems through different lenses and trying to solve them in creative ways!
Stanford d school

Right before the Covid lockdown (geez, that seems so long ago!), I had the great fortune to attend a 3 day deep dive at Stanford University. It's called the dschool or the k12 lab. As a school team, we experienced design thinking as a students would.  We were given scenarios, we followed the protocol and designed away! It starts with empathy, defining, ideation, creating a prototype and testing it out. You should look into it.
Design Thinking and International Dot Day!

Did you know International Dot Day is on   September 15th?  It's a day that celebrates collaboration and creation so it aligns perfectly with design thinking.  Make sure to go register so that you get access to all their resources.

Let's connect it!

Here we will connect design thinking and   International Dot Day.  Here is a link to a slide deck I created.  It outlines the design thinking protocol as created by Stanford University.  It connects Dot Day and empathy.  And uses drawing and the Quivervision app which takes their creations to create an augmented reality experience. (I'll be honest...I do not subcribe.  I can't afford it!  I sign up for the free trial during this time.)
 
Take a dive into design thinking!  Your students will thank you!

You can also find me on these platforms!
  

Monday

Great pd: The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History

Great pd: Gilder Lehrman



         History is an important topic to teach and Gilder Lehrman makes it wonderful and authentic.  If you are looking for great pd that connects to your students and your standards, check them out.  I am currently taking the course on The History of Latino and Latina People in the US.  They have courses on the American Revolutions and all historical concepts attached to the US.
     Sign up as a member for free and get access to all they have to offer.  Make sure to sign up your school too!  You can get free stuff all year long.  Poster, calendars and more!

Gilder Lehrman logo

You can find me on these platforms (as well as my blog!)
  

Thursday

Classroom Environment

Classroom environment

Time to consider classroom environment!
Why?
Why is classroom environment so important? It's not just about making your classroom pretty.  It's about making your class a safe place.  An inviting place.  A place where kids can look up to see their learning reflected and find resources to help them succeed.
How?

Consider:
  • Arrangement.   Are your desks and tables set up for great flow and easy access for pair work, discussions and group work?
  • Materials.   Can your students access all materials easily and does it foster independence?
  • Wall space.  Is learning visible?  Are anchor charts available for students to refer to when needed?  Is it colorful and eye-catching?
  • Structures and procedures.  When structures and procedures are clear and learned, it helps the learning flow.  Spend the time in the beginning getting them set up and it will pay off.
    One way to decorate and celebrate learning is through pennants!   I love to use pennants for holidays and general learning.  Here is what I use.



You can find me on these platforms (as well as my blog!)
  


Sunday

Lunar New Year 2023 is the year of the rabbit!

Lunar New Year

2023 is the year of the rabbit!  My students are so excited about it.
The History

Let's teach our kids some history about the of the Lunar New Year.  That is always fun and so important.  This project is good for grades 3-6.
Slide decks

Do you like using slide decks?  Check these out if you want something easy to use and a project for your kids.  


What ways will you teach about the Lunar New Year in your classroom?

You can find me on these platforms (as well as my blog!)
  


Thursday

101st day of school! Time for Dalmatian day

101st day of school

Did you know the 101st day of school is coming up?
When is it?

Well.  It's different for everybody.  It depends on when your school year started.

Wait... 101?

Everybody celebrates the 100th day of school.  Why not shake things up and celebrate the 101st?  And we call it Dalmatian day!  Who doesn't love dogs?
Keep it centered

Keep all your activities centered around the number 101 and dalmatians.   Do you need some ideas?  Check out my packet of activities here!


I hope you and your students enjoy the 101st day of school.  I know we had a blast!

You can find me on these platforms (as well as my blog!)
  



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