Books to create a Safe Space to Talk about Emotions (brought on by the CoVID-19 global pandemic)

When faced with challenging situations, I always turn to books. And we are all facing uncertainty. Schools and organizations are taking safety precautions within their buildings and exploring different ways to teach and learn. Students, educators, and parents are all feeling the effects of the ever changing situation and how it may impact the school experience. Secondary students benefit just as much as elementary students when a picture book is read aloud. It strengthens your classroom community, creates a safe space to talk about emotions, and provides a nice enjoyable experience for all. Listed are some titles that are available in print and digital e-book. These books may be helpful when addressing the emotions that come with this global pandemic.

A New Generation is Taking Action – 50th Anniversary of Earth Day

This April 22 will be the 50th anniversary of the first Earth Day, an annual event celebrated around the world that gives people an opportunity to demonstrate support for environmental protection. Not unlike the environmental scientists of 1970, the young self-starters of the Youth Climate Lawsuit are celebrating Earth Day every day. They are reminding the world that Government is required by our Constitution to protect the rights of young people and children, including their fundamental rights to life and liberty. There have been several new books published that ignite a call to action for change, encourage young people to be part of the change, and celebrate our Earth’s beauty. These three new books can help students celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day and get inspired to be part of the fight for everyone’s future.

Classic Books Made Into New Movies

The holidays are a great time to go see a movie with family and friends. My sons and I love to watch movies that are adapted from books we’ve read first. We love to analyze and compare, critique and evaluate. And more times than not, we declare the book is better than the movie. Learn more about three classic books that have been made into new movies this holiday season.

Before You Post, THINK: New Books That Teach Safe Social Media Habits

Now, more than ever, we are connected to people through our social media interchange rather than in-person interactions. Most of us have become citizens of the digital world, including our children and students. Have you thought about your role in social media? What is a child’s role?

My 50th Birthday: Not just another milestone, I’ve summited a mountain

Recently, I was scrolling through my Instagram and came across a meme of a paraphrased Vincent Lombardi quote. And it hit me -- these past 10 years, these milestones I’ve reached, have been a mountain I’ve been climbing. And I have reached the summit! The past decade of my life has been a bittersweet journey of climbing out of that crevasse of a cancer diagnosis and rising to the biggest accomplishment of my life - 10 years cancer free.

Empowering Picture Books for Children (and Grown-ups!)

Giving children the opportunity to feel courageous, secure, and confident through picture books is empowering. Ten years ago this October, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Breast Cancer and my sons were 3- and 6-years old at the time. Uplifting stories became a priority in our household.

Engage All Readers: Fill Your Library With A Variety Of Book Formats To Meet The Diverse Needs Of All Students

Fostering a love of reading is one of our goals as educators. All students benefit from having a variety of different types of texts available, especially reluctant readers. When building your collection, be sure to include a wide variety of titles in different formats to meet the diverse needs of all students.