Embracing the Struggle During Guided Reading
The other day, my feisty two-year son was working on a farm animal puzzle. With a sheep piece in hand, he was struggling to put it in...
On Finding Books That Are Just Like Me
I was recently working in a first-grade classroom when I sat down next to Sam, who was reading Amelia Bedelia: On the Move. I began to...
On Baking, Precision and Knowing When To Get Messy...
I bake. Often. It is one of the ways I meditate, take care of myself and seek out joy. In my next life (or next phase of life?) I want to...
Parts and Pieces: On Word Study Instruction
This summer, I read A Fresh Look At Phonics by Wiley Blevins. It made me think deeper about my word study instruction. One of the main...
On Becoming a Lifelong Reader
I was recently driving with my seven year old son. We were talking about his school year, as it was coming to an end, and the...
Thoughts on Interpretation: Thinking Alongside Middle School Students
I have the privilege of working across Grades 3-8 on most days. This past year I began staff development in a new school in New Jersey,...
The Weave: Strategies and Text Level Characteristics
My son, who is in first grade, came home the other day with his Scholastic book order. He was so excited to show me all of the books he...
Thoughts on Interpretation: Part 2: Studying Myself in the Company of Others
One of my most favorite short stories to use with older kids is “Mr. Entwhistle” a piece from the book Hey World, Here I Am! by Jean...
Thoughts on Interpretation: Part 1: Thinking Alongside Adult Learners
My colleague and I, Holly, launched in a new district a couple of weeks ago. In many ways it’s a compelling way to begin staff...
The Power of Mentors
My younger son, Christopher, is on the verge of turning three. As his birthday approaches, I find myself reflecting on the past year in...
