Way back when....

 

This is a picture of me when I was 4 and my senior portrait.  My mom put them in a scrapbook for me a few years ago along with many more photos from my childhood.  It was one of the best gifts that I have ever received.

My Favorite Children's Book

It is very hard to pick a favorite book!  There are so many wonderful books out there.  One of my favorites would have to be The Crayon Box that Talked by Shane DeRolf.  This is a delightful book that tells the story of crayons and their differences and similarities.  It is a simple read that is easy and enjoyable for all ages and yet it manages to deal with the serious topic of acceptance and love for others.  I have had the privilege of reading it to my grandchildren, my Sunday school class, and the children at my center.  I also used it as an icebreaker at our first in-service training this year.  I love the message of love and hope that it conveys.  I also love the colorful illustrations.  I hope you will check it out!

A favorite quote

One of my favorite quotes comes from the book, For the Love of Children, by Jean Steiner and Mary Steiner Whelan.  I had the good fortune to meet Mary and she autographed my book for me!  If you haven't read this book, please look it up.  It is a collection of affirmations for those who work with children.

"Childhood is terribly perishable.  It is always under siege."  Jim Greenman

I think this quote speaks to me because it reminds me that the early years are so fleeting.  I tend to get on my soapbox when some educators want to push down the curriculum and make pre-k mimic kindergarten.  At my center we believe that play is a child's work and many times I have had to defend this position.  I believe that children should be allowed to play and learn and just be children.  I wish everyone understood this.

Welcome to my blog! I am very excited about learning how to blog and getting to know all of my Walden University classmates!