As a kindergarten, first, or second-grade teacher, the concept of getting started with science of reading literacy centers may initially seem overwhelming. This is especially true at the beginning of the year when you are still trying to establish routines and procedures for success. But I’m here to help! With a clear understanding of the […]
As dedicated teachers, we understand the importance of tailoring our teaching strategies to meet the needs of each student. When it comes to phonics lessons, finding ways to differentiate phonics instruction plays a crucial role. It helps us ensure that we are reaching all readers and they have a strong phonics foundation. Whether you’re working […]
My two-year-old son asked me in the store, “Mommy, has I this new toy?” I responded, “Can you have this new toy?” “Yes,” he said. This is a funny story that happened to me, but it happens all the time with young children. They don’t know all the grammar rules yet or how to correctly […]
Teachers play a vital role in setting a strong foundation for their academic success. One of the key areas that significantly impacts a student’s reading journey is vocabulary development. By understanding the science of reading, we can use effective vocabulary activities and strategies to enhance vocabulary instruction in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade classrooms. […]
When it came to being a teacher, one area that I felt confident in was classroom management. Little did I know, this is something that would have to change constantly. There are so many different styles of classroom management strategies and areas that needed “management” that I didn’t even realize! I’m pretty sure I have […]
When I was in the classroom, I always wanted to help meet each student where they were and move them forward in reading and writing. We all do, right? But there is so much to get done in one school day. It often feels like there’s too much to do and not enough time. I […]
We know things are changing with our small group instruction, just as they have changed with our literacy instruction. And it’s a good thing, friends! There is so much good information out there about structured literacy. But what do we need to include in our literacy block each day? Today on the blog we are […]
It seems like the word Structured Literacy is everywhere. But what does it actually mean? If you’re a balanced literacy teacher and want to start making the switch, but aren’t sure how, you’re in the right place! Structured Literacy can be a powerful approach to teaching reading and writing. Here’s the thing…it is true that […]
When you hear the words “differentiating literacy centers”, how do you feel? Do you start thinking about how overwhelming the idea is? Do you think of how daunting the task may seem? Or maybe you’re not really sure what that looks like in the classroom and how to get started. Literacy centers are a valuable […]
Oral language development plays a crucial role in a child’s overall academic success. Kindergarten, first, and second grade teachers have the unique opportunity to foster and nurture language development. That can be done through oral language activities, laying a strong foundation for future learning. But why should teachers want to promote oral language skills? And […]
Are you looking for an exciting and engaging way to introduce math concepts to your Kindergarten, first grade, or second grade class? Look no further than math games with cards! Not only are these games fun and entertaining, but they also help children develop essential math skills. Number recognition, counting, and basic operations are easily […]
This post is sponsored by Carson Dellosa. All opinions and reviews of these reading tools are my own. Are you looking for engaging and effective ways to teach phonics and reading to your students? Look no further than literacy manipulatives and reading tools! In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best phonics manipulatives […]
While the month of April may not feel as packed with fun holidays as some months, there are still a lot of holidays and themes we can bring into the classroom to integrate into science and social studies. There’s spring, Earth Day, and Easter (even if it’s in the form of bunnies and chicks). One […]
When you hear the phrases RTI, intervention activities, and reading intervention support, how do you feel? What comes to mind? I know when I was in my early years in the classroom, it hurt my brain. Managing RTI and intervention activities were just going to send me over the edge some years, but I really […]
Learn how to use a science-based approach to teaching high-frequency words called “heart words”. Early in my teaching career, I can remember telling parents to practice high-frequency words at home. I told them to make flashcards and practice, practice, practice. I often explained that these words had “tricky parts” in them and that some of […]
Have you ever had students who struggle to read words with blends or complete activities for blends? Maybe they read “bet” for best or “cab” for crab? This is very common for beginning readers! If you have students who know their letters and sounds and can blend and segment CVC words, they may be ready […]
When it comes to the science of reading research, how do you feel? Do you want to learn more, but aren’t sure where to start? Do you feel like a rising expert, but need more ways to help your students master foundational reading and writing skills? Or maybe you’re somewhere in the middle and just […]
No matter what grade you teach in elementary, helping students develop strong social-emotional skills is always a part of your unspoken curriculum. Helping our young students grow into confident, kind adults can be done in so many different ways. One of my favorite ways to do this is to use books to teach social skills. […]
