12 Jul

When you read this, Harper Lee’s new novel Go Set A Watchman is only days away from our eyes. We are blessed, as readers of good literature to have a second glance into the mind and heart of one of the finest authors of our time. It simply doesn’t matter whether we think it is bad or good; no judgment is needed. This is my opinion of course, but I would hate to see Harper Lee skewered when we may…..

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30 Jun

Today I’m sharing a slightly revised story you may have seen before. It was written by Dr. Robert McNeish in 1972. If not, or as a reminder, I hope you are inspired by this life metaphor, and hopefully pass on this important message. It’s always so beautiful to watch geese flying overhead. Did you ever wonder why they fly in formation? Nature is amazing in its simplicity. Life lessons that make a difference: As each bird flaps its wings, it creates…..

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22 Jun

Childhood is a precious time. What’s the rush? Summer is the perfect time to enjoy reading with your kids for sheer pleasure and enjoyment!  During the extra time of summer break, children read in homemade forts, on blankets, under trees, at the library, bedtime and hopefully with the family before or after dinner. Reading is such a blessing to share with our kids. This is truly the gift of gifts that keeps on giving. Turning off all media for set…..

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19 Jun

This letter was originally published at Michigan Mom Living. Dear Moms, I was born in Muskegon, MI so I am a Michigander at heart. As a mom of four, and a nana of five, I’m still teaching after nearly 45 years as reading teacher,principal, etc.I was blessed to instruct homeschool kids of all ages and their families. I believe in educating children at home. Childhood is a precious time! Parents are a child’s first and best teachers. Today I’m sharing simple…..

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08 Jun

If you’ve ever tried to teach a child anything that does not naturally interest him or her, you’ve likely been on the receiving end of “Why do we need to know this?” Today I’m sharing the why behind Reading Champs. By supplementing in the areas where kids are struggling, we can truly change their lives! Why Do We All Need to Know This? As parents, you can take the lead in ensuring that your child has the competitive edge, prepared to excel and compete…..

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01 Jun

Data-driven instruction puts a lot of pressure on third graders to be proficient readers. Third grade has traditionally been considered a cut point, meaning until third, students learned to read, then kids read to learn, from then on. I do consider that to be true, based on my experience. However, I have always believed we continue improving our reading all the way through school, and beyond, in adulthood. It’s time to reconsider retention as the correct strategy to remediate children left…..

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25 May

Let’s talk so we can understand each other. I really enjoyed this thoughtful article which I am sharing with you today. What a brave new Common Core world! There are so many educational buzzwords I have trouble understanding them. Maybe you do too. The constant is change; the future is now. Memorial weekend means a lot to us. We all know someone who has sacrificed for our country. My son-in-law was in the navy in Iraq. He is a hero to…..

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18 May

This is the time of endings and new beginnings!  Unless you’re teaching year-around, the count down begins. After you’ve had time to relax and rejuvenate, do a little summative, on your own, end of term evaluation. Did you get the results you wanted? What would you do differently? Then take a break! This summer, make time for learning fun! Field trips Arts and crafts Science experiments Thematic projects Exercise Read widely as a family, and self-choice Family literature classics Library…..

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11 May

I’m so glad to have such an important guest post from the Irlen Institute! Thank you so much, Sandra and Helen. ___ What happens when you’re told your child has dyslexia, but the months (or years) of tutoring, phonics instruction, and specialized reading programs don’t seem to help? Your child is still struggling. And what do you do when a doctor diagnoses your child with ADHD and prescribes medication, but the medication doesn’t make it better? Educators and medical professionals…..

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27 Apr

Just say no to flat, expressionless, boring reading. Say yes to smooth, correctly phrased, lilting lyrical reading! Where do you start? Read to your tummy. No kidding! Next comes lap reading, then keep reading with your child long after that. This is the first step toward building fluency. By modeling your love of reading, children hear the lilt in your voice, see your expression and experience the joy of language. I always encourage family reading time, as well as bedtime…..

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