You Are Special: Mr. Rogers Says So

My husband and I recently watched Won’t You Be My Neighbor?, a highly acclaimed documentary about Fred Rogers and his long running public television show, Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.  I have childhood memories of watching the show, but they are pretty vague. As a child, I did not realize what Mr. Rogers was trying to teach me. I only saw the show as entertainment. One thing that stood out to me while watching the film was how much Mr. Rogers wanted children to know they were valued and important. Mr. Rogers and his show have been the subject of many books, films, Read More

17 Quotes About Reading to Inspire You

If you go back and look at this blog’s history, you’ll see that I post a list of great quotes every couple of months. I collect quotes that interest and inspire me. Reading quotes are a perfect fit for me. Why? Because I love to read. My love of reading came early in my life and it has never left me. Maybe you don’t consider yourself a reader. If that is the case, I’m sure you’ll find a quote for you here anyways. And if you are a reader, then these reading quotes are especially for you. I’ve written before Read More

Why Summer Reading Is Important

Do you have some books picked out for your summer reading? I have always loved to read. Some of my earliest memories are of going to the local library and picking out books. I can still picture the shelf where some of my favorite books were located. For some children, reading doesn’t come as easy. But it’s no less important. And I’d argue that reading is almost as important for adults too. Summer is the perfect time to set some reading goals. For children, time off school shouldn’t mean time off from reading. I spent five years teaching reading skills Read More

If You Can Read This, Thank Your Teachers

May 8 is National Teacher Day. It’s a day to celebrate, give thanks for, and acknowledge the teachers in our lives. Our school celebrates teachers all week long. Personally, one day or even one week doesn’t seem like enough. Teachers do so much for our kids, our families, and our communities. Too often, they are given too little pay, too little credit, and too little thanks. In addition, they are frequently asked to take on issues and responsibilities way beyond their job descriptions. Nevertheless, teachers continue to work hard, champion our children, and help build and strengthen our communities.   Read More