Sometimes when I talk to children about why they should be kind and treat each other with respect, they tune out. However, they rarely tune out when listening to a captivating story. Stories are the glue that holds their attention.
Year: 2026
Working in the Wonder Studio: Setting the Stage
This month, it is the 3rd grade’s turn in the Wonder Studio. I usually have a packed crowd waiting to create, but this group is a little reticent, and I have had only 3 to 6 students come to form. However, what they lack in volume, they make up for in collaborative creativity.
Reveling in Winter White: Cloud Dancer
This morning, the snow called for me to breathe, slow my pace, and put my mind in order. It opened up a space for me to write and wonder, to dream and create. I definitely have a deficit in those areas. I don’t think I have attention deficit; I think I have intention deficit. I get so involved in so many day-to-day comings and goings that I forget what is most important to me. Thank goodness, nature has a way of reminding me, bringing back, pulling me into its healing sphere.
Taking Wing: Bird Research & Poetry in 2nd Grade
As the students wrapped up their science studies, I offered to read some of my own bird poems to demonstrate how they could transform their research into creative writing. Becky and I envisioned this as a dynamic way to bridge scientific inquiry with creative writing, transforming our students into "poetic scientists."
One Little Word, 2026
This year, as I approach my seventh decade, I wanted to choose a word that would help me journey into old age with grace and courage. I know I will certainly need it.
