tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61282545716455461602024-03-15T18:09:44.229-07:00Learning With Mrs. ParkerLearning with Mrs. Parker is an #earlyeducation blog that amplifies diverse literacy and play based learning. Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.comBlogger306125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-87791093129374249612020-05-16T12:27:00.001-07:002020-05-16T12:27:46.684-07:00Where Am I Now?<center><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">It feels like a million years ago, since I've sat down to write on this page. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So much has taken place since my last post.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Where am I now?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Currently, like yourself, I am in Safer at Home orders due to COVID-19. That may be in part, why I have "the time" to write.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This space, Learning with Mrs. Parker, was/is the first place I made teacher connections outside of my school community. It feels like returning to a familiar place but at the same time I feel a bit lost and out of place.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Teacher blogs are no longer the same as they used to be when I first began almost a decade ago. (Did I just type, a DECADE?!!)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">That might be in part why I stopped writing. I've never viewed myself as a teacher blogger who wants to self promote. Rather, I see myself as that teacher who want to share that something that makes my teacher life easier or better.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Which brings me back to where am I now.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm currently teaching Transitional Kindergarten which in California means the grade between pre-k and Kindergarten. It's been a new learning curve understanding the developmental needs of late four/early five year olds. I do love it but...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I do miss kindergarten some days.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Some things remain the same...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I believe that literacy provides voices for all. I want my students to see themselves in the books we read. I continue to try to improve my pedagogy because if I want my students to learn, I need to as well.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm not sure why I got on here today...but, perhaps, it's to bookmark a period of my teaching career.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Learning with Mrs. Parker has always been about my teaching journey. Perhaps, it's time I get back to sharing. What do you think? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jb0LIzSgJxY/VZaI_jITogI/AAAAAAAAJr0/HJNdFN0yLWQ/s1600/signature.png" style="text-align: left;" width="250" /></div></center>Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-80485102101352550602018-04-04T12:23:00.001-07:002018-04-04T12:24:20.724-07:00Changes<br />
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Lots has changed since I sat down to write here. While I still love this, my teacher voice has wavered a bit.<br />
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You see, I began the school year without a classroom. For the first time in over a decade, I did not have a class. If any of you have experienced this before, you know, the emptiness one feels. The first day of school was one of the most emotionally draining days of my career. I was now, a Teacher on Special Assignment. </div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BYYSLyXgBKK/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Happy First Day of School. Today is a bittersweet day. I have a classroom ready but waiting. Waiting for enrollment to increase. So, today I'm reminding myself that everything is going to be ok.</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/learningwithmrsparker/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Mrs.Parker</a> (@learningwithmrsparker) on <time datetime="2017-08-29T13:30:22+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Aug 29, 2017 at 6:30am PDT</time></div>
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Unbeknownst to me, this turned out to be a blessing in disguise. At home, my father-in-law was gravely ill. As a family, we spent the next six of weeks traveling to and from work, home and the hospital. </div>
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In October, I took over a fifth grade class while a teacher was on maternity leave. Unexpectedly, the teacher did not return. All of a sudden, I became a teacher of BIG KIDS. </div>
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What I've come to find out is that changing grade levels does not define who I am as a teacher. Rather, it has affirmed my teaching philosophy. Now, more than ever, I see how students need engagement, novelty, play, and choice in their learning regardless of grade levels. That's what I've tried to bring into the classroom. While not always perfect, I am learning. </div>
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Each day, I enter my classroom knowing that it is a blessing that I am their teacher. Perhaps, this was where I was meant to be all along; with them. </div>
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I hope that you'll join me in my journey as I share what I've learned as a fifth grade teacher this school year. </div>
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I don't know what the future holds. But, I do know that I can be the teacher kids need if I am willing to accept the challenge.</div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-73242635810265913302017-10-15T10:29:00.002-07:002017-10-15T10:29:57.027-07:00Digital Citizenship in Kindergarten<center>
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We are teaching digital natives. Our students come to us knowing how to take a selfie, swipe on a screen and much more!</div>
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It can be a mixed blessing. As our classrooms become more integrated with technology, it is important to be mindful and think about what we are teaching our students as digital citizens.</div>
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Last year, I had the opportunity to become a <a href="https://www.commonsense.org/education/recognition-educators">Digital Citizenship Educator</a>. The experience helped to raise my awareness about the topics that our youngest learners can handle in regards to Digital Citizenship. </div>
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Next week, October 16th - 20th is <a href="https://www.commonsense.org/education/digital-citizenship-week?gclid=CjwKCAjwjozPBRAqEiwA6xTOYAeywV30kTLQfWL4QI-4EHYZii3Z-Fbpn8hlsz1XewVtcO_eaprzWxoC9WAQAvD_BwE">Digital Citizenship Week</a>. So, I thought I'd share how you can help create Digital Citizens in your classrooms. </div>
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What does Digital Citizenship in Kindergarten look like? </div>
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In my classroom, I kept the format simple. We usually watched a video on an element of Digital Citizenship. The <a href="https://www.commonsense.org/education/">Educator section on Common Sense</a> has many to choose from. Afterwards, we had a class discussion. If possible, I created extension activities and anchor charts. </div>
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I found out a lot about my students' interaction with social media, the internet and how they use their devices during our class discussions. This was truly eye opening. Their candor helped me with follow up lessons. </div>
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If you think that teaching Digital Citizenship in Kindergarten is too soon. I'm sorry to tell you, it isn't. These discussions and lessons are important. I hope that by teaching this sooner rather than later, we will help alleviate the problem we see now with teens and social media. We are creating habits that can have a lifelong impact. </div>
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If you'd like to learn more lesson on Digital Citizenship for young learners, here is a<a href="https://www.thinglink.com/scene/849478035684982786"> Thinglink</a> I created. I highly recommend <a href="http://commonsense.org/">CommonSense.org </a>for both educators and families. It has a wealth of resources for all ages.</div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-19870012366479431432017-07-12T23:01:00.001-07:002017-11-20T06:58:55.331-08:00Coding with Kindergarteners<center style="text-align: left;">
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Coding with Kindergarteners?!</center>
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Okay, I know what you are thinking. </center>
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I must admit that I thought the same thing. I also thought how can I teach coding when I don't even know how? Coding requires computers, right?! Wrong! </center>
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I learned that you don't need to be a coding expert to teach coding. You can learn right alongside your students.</center>
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Coding can be fun and engaging. It helps students to think critically, work with one another and to problem solve. Isn't that what we want all our students to achieve?</center>
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While I am not a coding expert, I do believe that my role as a teacher is to give my students opportunities to partake in learning that will help them in their future. Coding does just that.</center>
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Here are a few ways we explored coding in our classroom. </center>
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<span style="color: cyan; font-size: x-large;">Computer Coding</span></center>
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Traditionally, we think of coding via the computer. Luckily, we don't have to need to know a coding program like Java to code. Today, there are many resources for learners young and old to learn to code. </center>
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<a href="http://code.org/">Code.org</a> is a great resource and has a plethora of activities. In our classroom, we also use <a href="https://www.kodable.com/">Kodable</a>; a free resource for teachers and students. My students loved both of these. </center>
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Paperless coding or coding unplugged is a great way to introduce coding to young students. Students learn the basics of coding such as sequencing, patterns, directionality and following directions. </center>
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In our classroom, we used <a href="http://www.sitspots.com/">SitSpots</a> and arrows. Students worked in groups to tell each other how to travel through the SitSpots. </center>
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You could easily modify this by using something like <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BNsupRXBuFi/?taken-by=learningwithmrsparker">this</a> or use a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Unplugged-Coding-All-Year-Growing-Bundle-2906609">resource like this one</a> to help you plan your lessons. </center>
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What I liked about paperless coding is that students really began to understand the need for giving explicit directions. </center>
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Coding with Bots</span></center>
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One of my goals this year was to go beyond the Hour of the Code in my classroom.</center>
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I knew that I wanted my students to code but I just didn't know how to fit it all in. I decided to incorporate coding into my math centers. </center>
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We used this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Code-Robot-Mouse-Activity-Pieces/dp/B01A5YMCH4/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1499922437&sr=8-3-fkmr1&keywords=coding+mouse+bot">Code and Go Robot Mouse</a>. It was perfect for partner work. Students created a maze/path for Colby the Coding Mouse to find the cheese. What I liked about this bot was all the mathematical reasoning that was involved. </center>
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When I saw this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01D1FGX2Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Coji Bot</a> which you code using emojis, I knew my class just had to have it. </center>
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This little bot can be used with or without the app or device. Coji performs a series of movements based on how it is coded. It also responds to your coding via different emojis. Students loved this component. </div>
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As I move forward teaching my students more about coding, I'd like to continue to incorporate new tools; thanks to Amazon Prime Day my <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ozobot-Starter-Teaches-Inspires-Creativity/dp/B01M97P47H/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1499925421&sr=8-3&keywords=ozobot">Ozobot</a> arrives soon, apps, resources and programs. I also want to set aside more time weekly to coding. </div>
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I'd love to help you incorporate more coding into your classroom, too. If you are a Follower of my blog via any platform (Bloglovin', Facebook, Twitter or Instagram), I am giving away to one lucky follower either the Code and Go Mouse or the Coji bot. All you have to do is comment below with how you would incorporate this into your classroom. Leave your email address and I will pick a winner 7/19.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Please note: This giveaway is not affiliated with any of the above companies. These are products which I used and like. Open to US residents only. </span></div>
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Coding is for everyone; even our youngest learners! I hope that you can incorporate one of these three ways to code with your students. </div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-82049080710513076602017-04-09T19:08:00.001-07:002017-04-09T20:30:05.403-07:00Inspiring Healing and Hope<center>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It is with great pleasure to have Barbara from <a href="http://www.corneroncharacter.com/">Corner on Character</a> here to share her expertise on helping children heal. Having read her blog for years, I know that I can trust her when it comes to educating and nurturing the whole child. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hello from Barbara at the <a href="http://www.corneroncharacter.com/">Corner on Character</a>.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Thank you, Sylvia, for inviting me to share some reflections on healing and hope. Children come to us in all shapes and sizes, from all different backgrounds, with a variety of experiences from their formative years. Some will come to school healthy and happy, but others will be navigating sensory issues, be dealing with attachment issues, or be recovering from stress, trauma, or abuse. They all bring a story as unique as they are. As care providers, we have the awesome privilege and responsibility to help shape, nurture, support, mentor, stretch and grow alongside of the learners in our class families as we step into their stories and give them skills to soar.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; white-space: pre-wrap;">The children whose stories are riddled with problems and pain, sadness and sorrow, tragedy and trauma, anxiety and angst will need a lot of our tender loving care. Yesterday alone I walked with students through the sadness of losing a pet, the heartbreak of a relative who is battling cancer, the anger of a family that is going through a divorce, the stress and pressure of high stakes testing, the worry of an impending move because dad lost his job. The list could go on and on as it becomes increasingly clear that we’ve got our work cut out for us. If we can’t reach them, then how will we teach them?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; white-space: pre-wrap;">So how do we reach them? Ah, the million-dollar question. First and foremost, students have to be able to trust us. We build trust when we deliver on our promises, when we do what we say we’re going to do, when we show up and listen to understand before we respond. We build trust by showing empathy, compassion and kindness. We build trust with people of all ages and stages by letting them know that they matter, that they are important to us, that we are there for them. Always. No matter what. As caregivers, we work with intention to connect with their hearts by honoring their feelings and helping them feel that they are valued and valuable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; white-space: pre-wrap;">One super easy way to make those connections is standing at the door and greeting students as they come in to your character building. I like to stand at the entrance, hold the door opened, and give high fives. I often put my opened hand high above my head and challenge students to reach higher. They have to jump a little to connect palm to palm. I can easily get an emotional barometer from this simple activity so I know whom I might need to check on before the day is out. Our teachers stand at their classroom doors to give handshakes, high fives, or hugs. Students can choose which way they want to be greeted, another way to empower them. For those who may be recovering from a trauma or abuse, or those who have sensory issues, hugs might not be appropriate, so we give them a choice and take their lead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once inside the classroom, starting the day with a class meeting will be like serving breakfast to their hearts. Check out what <a href="http://kcur.org/post/taking-different-approach-behavioral-problems-school-trauma-informed-care">this Trauma-Informed school in Missouri</a> is doing to connect its students. <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?sid=43704288&amp;nid=147&amp;title=utah-school-finds-success-in-helping-students-deal-with-emotions">Rose Park Elementary</a> in Salt Lake City is also working purposefully to honor feelings and help students recognize and regulate them. Many schools use the <a href="https://www.responsiveclassroom.org/what-is-morning-meeting/">Responsive Classroom Morning Meeting</a> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">model, others use the <a href="http://www.rtime.info/usa/">R Time</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> program, still others have created their own grass-roots version of the sensitivity circle to help reach all students.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As the minutes turn to hours, we owe it to our children to be sensitive to the social and emotional needs of all students throughout the day. This can be accomplished by being in touch with individual needs and using strategies like conflict resolution wheels like <a href="https://kelsoschoice.com/">Kelso’s Choice</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, designating safe-place areas as suggested by <a href="https://consciousdiscipline.com/resources/safe_place_breathing_icons.asp">Conscious Discipline</a> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">or simply by providing a calm-down corner with permission for a student to use it as needed, no questions asked. Put some fidgets, stress balls, sensory bottles, a journal, some crayons or markers and coloring sheets, maybe even a weighted blanket in there and let them choose how they’ll self-soothe. Talk about empowerment and trust!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once relationships are in place, there’s no limit to the places you’ll be able to take our children, our future. Thank you for being the hero that you needed as a child for that next child who is fortunate enough to come into your life and share his/her story with you. Cape up and keep on crusading for good.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; white-space: pre-wrap;">For additional resources on recovery and restoration, check out these posts:</span></div>
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<li><a href="https://freespiritpublishingblog.com/2017/04/04/helping-kids-move-beyond-tragedy/" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Helping Kids Move Beyond Tragedy</span></a></li>
<li><a href="https://freespiritpublishingblog.com/2015/11/12/after-the-trauma-treating-ptsd-in-children/" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">After The Trauma: Treating PSTD In Children</span></a></li>
<li><a href="https://freespiritpublishingblog.com/2016/02/18/resources-and-strategies-for-supporting-grieving-students/" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Resources and Strategies For Supporting Grieving Students</span></a></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Blessings on your {heart} work,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Barbara </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Corner on Character </span></span></div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-37827675174397878732017-04-04T19:35:00.002-07:002017-04-04T19:35:32.306-07:00Hurt<center>
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How do we help our students who come to school living in or with trauma? </div>
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When I read <a href="http://neatoday.org/2016/05/17/trauma-and-children/">this article</a>, I felt as if it had been written for me. Then, I thought, I must not be alone. </div>
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You see, I have had students like this. Students who at such a young age are overwhelmed by circumstances, often beyond their control. Students who are hurt. </div>
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Each person handles these circumstances in different ways. As a child, I too, came to school hurting; wishing for better. How did I cope? Well, I retreated. I tried not to stand out but blend in. Hoping that no one would see the emotional pain I was in. As a result, school became my safe haven; a place where I could escape from my childhood trauma.<br />
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Today, as a teacher, I see my students act upon their trauma in different ways. While some may retreat like me, others, escalate, meltdown and go into fits of rage. What I have learned is that the child is not purposefully acting out. Instead, it is a cry for help.<br />
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There are some things that I can do to allow for success and to help.<br />
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Although, not an expert, here is some advice that I have learned over the years.<br />
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First and foremost, be mindful. Show respect and love for the child. Be willing to listen. Create a calm environment. Keep calm. Seek help. Show unconditional acceptance. Be willing to be vulnerable with the child. Forgive. Trust. Nurture. Be a champion. Advocate. Let them be little. Repeat.<br />
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Only, then, can you begin to teach strategies to handle one's emotions.<br />
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As a teacher, you may never see the "effects" of your work but know in your heart that you did good. Children in trauma need us. I know. I was that little girl.<br />
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April is <a href="http://americanspcc.org/national-child-abuse-prevention-month/">Child Abuse Prevention Month</a>. This year's theme is Building Community, Building Hope. For more information or help, <a href="http://americanspcc.org/national-child-abuse-prevention-month/">you may want to visit here.</a><br />
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-48635864153673021082017-03-20T22:40:00.000-07:002017-03-20T22:41:31.356-07:00Using the Explore Tool with Young Learners<center>
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Have you tried the <a href="https://docs.googleblog.com/2016/09/ExploreinDocsSheetsSlides.html">Explore Tool</a> in Google Docs or Slides with your students? If not, you must! What I like about it is that it is so easy to use; even a kindergartener can do it! </div>
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This smart tool uses the content within your document to help determine the topic, related research and images as you Explore. This allows young learners, like mine, to research and/or add images safely from within Google Docs or Slides. </div>
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My students have used the Explore tool primarily to insert images. They type or use Voice Typing; another favorite, to create their document. Then, they simply click on the Explore icon and related images appear. My students find the one they like and press insert. The image is embedded into the document. </div>
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Integrating technology doesn't always have to be hard on you or your students with tools like Explore.</div>
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What are your favorite Google tech tools?</div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-24156756506406675012017-02-26T21:31:00.000-08:002017-02-26T21:31:02.807-08:00#TeacherFriends at the SCKC This weekend I had the pleasure of attending the Southern California Kindergarten Conference (#SCKC). It was an awesome experience of learning from the best and most inspiring teachers and bloggers.<br />
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It was an honor to finally meet Debbie Clement, moderator of the Twitter chat, <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23teacherfriends&src=typd">#TeacherFriends</a>.<br />
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If you have not seen <a href="http://rainbowswithinreach.blogspot.com/">Debbie Clement</a> present, <b><span style="font-size: large;">you must</span></b>! Her joy for the arts and early childhood is without a doubt never ending. Her words resonated in so many ways. I laughed, I cried and was utterly amazed by her. I can't wait to see her again! </div>
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Want to get a sense of who Debbie is? <a href="http://rainbowswithinreach.blogspot.com/2012/12/head-start-association-parent.html#comment-form">This blog post</a> is one of my favorites.</div>
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I've been a blogger for almost six years. Along the way, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with some of the best teacher educators and bloggers. Deedee Wills and I collaborated for a <a href="http://mrswillskindergarten.com/math-work-stations-blog-party-chapter-1/">blog book study</a>; long before Pinterest and IG. </div>
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To be able to meet her at the #SCKC was a great moment! </div>
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She is the best! As I watched her present, I could see that to her, learning is #morethanaworksheet. It involves collaboration and learning through engagement. </div>
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Thank you Deedee for welcoming me! You are always welcomed into my classroom!</div>
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Finally, I had a total #fangirl moment when I met Cara from <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/">The First Grade Parade</a>! </div>
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Anytime she likes anything on my IG account, I have a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWtUVDG5M1w">Sally Field moment</a>. She is so smart and petite, like me! ;)</div>
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Thank you, #TeacherFriends for inspiring others; like me and for sharing your passion with other educators. It was a great weekend! </div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-1274841431843559602017-01-02T10:24:00.001-08:002017-01-02T10:24:27.106-08:00HOPE <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy New Year! </div>
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This year I choose <b><span style="font-size: x-large;">HOPE</span></b> as my #OLW. </div>
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As I think of what I would like to focus on this year, I think of <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>HOPE</b></span>. My heart yearns for <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>HOPE</b></span> as I move forward this year.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">HOPE</span></b> for my family. <b><span style="font-size: x-large;">HOPE</span></b> for myself as a wife, mother and educator. <b><span style="font-size: x-large;">HOPE</span></b> for my students. <b><span style="font-size: x-large;">HOPE</span></b> for our future in these uncertain times.</div>
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I have always been a dreamer and believer that anything is possible. May <span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">HOPE </span>be my guiding light in the new year.</div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-88132956019065960892016-11-25T10:57:00.003-08:002016-11-26T09:02:23.993-08:00STEM Resources for Little Builders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Are you trying to integrate more STEM into your classroom? </div>
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Me, too!</div>
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I've gathered a collection of STEM resources for littles builders. These are some of my favorite items for the classroom.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>TECHNOLOGY FOR LITTLE BUILDERS </b></span></div>
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Our students are digital natives. We know that they are using technology in and out of the home. Why not give them the best technology has to offer! These tools will challenge your students in new ways. </div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Bloxels-Build-Your-Video-Game/dp/B01FUFJ4ZQ/ref=sr_1_2?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1480091920&sr=1-2&keywords=bloxels">Bloxels</a> allows you to create your own video game by creating your own character using the Bloxel blocks and the Bloxel Builder app. This game combines both physical building and interactive online play. </div>
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I am excited to use <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Resources-Robot-Mouse-Activity/dp/B01A5YMCH4/ref=sr_1_2?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1480092642&sr=1-2&keywords=coding+for+kids">Learning Resources Code & Go Robot</a> during Hour of the Code. This little bot is a perfect way to introduce coding to my students. </div>
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<a href="https://www.playosmo.com/en/shopping/">PlayOsmo</a> has been a classroom staple for a few years. The games allow for collaboration and increases in difficulty. Tangrams and Words are classroom favorites.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>ENGINEERING FOR LITTLE BUILDERS</b></span></div>
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STEM is all about constructing and creating. That is what I love about it. These engineering tools have endless possibilities and uses.</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Snap-Circuits-SC-100-Electronics-Discovery/dp/B00008BFZH/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1480097291&sr=1-1&keywords=snap+circuits">Snap Circuits</a> are an oldie but goodie. It is great for someone who likes to discover how things work. </div>
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If you are working on force and motion, a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Marble-Run-durable-EXCLUSIVELY-MINDWARE/dp/B002OFCW5A/ref=sr_1_6?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1480098045&sr=1-6&keywords=Marble+run">Marble Run</a> is a must have tool. </div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/VIAHART-Interlocking-Educational-Alternative-Childrens/dp/B00N7CD4BK/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1480098407&sr=1-1&keywords=brain+flakes">Brain Flakes</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Fat-Brain-Toys-Squigz-Building/dp/B00BSYIUQI/ref=sr_1_2?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1480098454&sr=1-2&keywords=squigz">Squigz</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0164WC4RY?psc=1">ETI Construction Toys</a>, and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Magformers-63076-Standard-Set-30-pieces/dp/B002NGOH1W/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1480098486&sr=1-1&keywords=magnaforms">MagnaFormers</a> are perfect for open ended building. These toys are fantastic for the engineers in our classroom. </div>
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Lastly, don't forget everyday items like cardboard boxes, paper, and other recyclable household materials. They are great for many STEM related projects that your students might work on throughout the school year. </div>
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What I love the most about all of these STEM resources for little builders is that they help students become creators and thinkers. We all know that this is what our students need the most; opportunities to shine.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Please note: This post contains affiliate links. </span></div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-75064201952879784182016-11-23T19:44:00.000-08:002017-07-22T11:15:13.211-07:00#BeYou<br />
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#BeYou.<br />
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Seems easy. But, sometimes it is hard.</div>
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When I began this blog six years ago, it was fun. It was carefree. It was easy.</div>
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But, then, it became complicated. </div>
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I began to question myself. Is my content worthy? Do teachers like me? Am I good enough?<br />
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This in part is why I have blogged less and less. <br />
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But, I miss it. I miss sharing #thegood that is happening in my classroom. I miss having an outlet to tell my story with my students. <br />
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So, I've decided to tell #mystory.<br />
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This blog will be my outlet to share my teaching journey. It may not be picture perfect or Pinterest worthy but it will be real.<br />
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And, if you are still reading....Thank you!<br />
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Thank you for spending a bit of your time here. I hope that you find something that inspires you in some way because that is what you have done for me. I am a better teacher because you. So, thank you!<br />
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One last thought....<br />
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#BeYou</div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-8651189767706299652016-08-19T22:02:00.003-07:002016-11-26T09:01:11.969-08:00Integrated Technology with Chicka Chicka Boom Boom<center>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Chicka-Boom-Board-Book/dp/1442450703">Chicka Chicka Boom Boom</a> is a timeless classic used by many in kindergarten and first grade classrooms. </div>
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This year, I am adding a technology twist inspired by my reading of<a href="https://www.amazon.com/HyperDoc-Handbook-Digital-Lesson-Design/dp/1945167009"> The HyperDoc Handbook: Digital Lesson Design Using Google Apps. </a></div>
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I have created a Chicka Chicka Boom Boom <span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1dMyP3r12Ff0sCIWqNqGqnYOJ4oG3B7sP5gH3lFjHHWY/edit?usp=sharing">hyperdoc</a></span> which my students will use in Google Classroom. Students will watch a video of the story, sort letters in their name and even sing the alphabet song. This extension activity will be completed in small groups with me guiding them through the process as this will most likely be one of our first activities using Google Classroom and #GAFE tools. </div>
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I am excited to see what other integrated technology lessons I create inspired by our learning.</div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-31405507507913073692016-07-29T17:39:00.000-07:002016-07-29T17:39:38.397-07:00Read Alouds For the First Day of KindergartenA new school year is almost here. These are some of the books I will read on the first day of Kindergarten. I selected these books because they are engaging and kindergarteners can easily identify with the characters.<br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">INTERACTIVE BOOKS</span><br />
I want my kindergarteners to know that they are readers; even on the first day of school. These engaging, short interactive books get students to actively participating.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006GH9KTS/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1">Fairly Fairy Tales</a> by Esme Raji Codell is my favorite choral reading book. Within the pages, we find a little girl and her mother reading a bedtime story. Along the way, we discover a story that combines a mixture of questioning and fairy tale characters with a modern twist.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mSvkYLwR6cM/V5vuNqS-zVI/AAAAAAAASU4/nk-piJywr703p-9KtIB2baYvRG6IZkHUgCLcB/s1600/Pete%2Bthe%2BCat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mSvkYLwR6cM/V5vuNqS-zVI/AAAAAAAASU4/nk-piJywr703p-9KtIB2baYvRG6IZkHUgCLcB/s200/Pete%2Bthe%2BCat.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Press-Here-Herve-Tullet/dp/0811879542">Press Here</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mix-Up-Herve-Tullet/dp/1452137358">Mix It Up</a> by Harry Tullet have readers interact with the book. With each page turn students eagerly await what will happen next. This is a perfect book to use if you want to also teach carpet or rug expectations. Often, even my most squiggly of students, will sit up tall and raise their hand to have a turn.<br />
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<a href="http://www.petethecatbooks.com/songs/">The songs and videos of Pete the Cat books</a> are just right when your students need a bit of movement and fun. It's all good when you have Pete the Cat by your side on the first day of kindergarten.<br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL BOOKS</span><br />
I want to acknowledge my students feelings about the first day of school. For many of my kindergartners, this is the first time that they have been away from home for an extended period of time. These books help to ease and comfort them.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZCYYLL8/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1#nav-subnav">Dad's First Day</a> is a great read if you have parents in the room with their child on the first day. They will be able to relate to the mix of emotions Oliver's dad is feeling.<br />
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In <a href="https://www.amazon.com/I-Dont-Want-Go-School/dp/B008W31RLI">I Don't Want to Go To School</a>, Simon says "No way!" to going to school. But as he discovers, school is a fun safe place to learn. <br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: x-large;">CLASSIC KINDERGARTEN READS</span><br />
I also make sure to share a few "classic" reads that students may recognize from preschool if they attended. No, David!, Brown Bear, Brown Bear and Chicka Chicka Boom Boom are always within reach on the first few days of school. They are great for teaching many concepts and are timeless classics.<br />
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What are your must read books for the first day of kindergarten?</div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-18143156585475864992016-07-22T14:17:00.001-07:002016-07-22T14:20:00.847-07:00Wiggle and Learn<center>
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Flexible and alternative seating is one of the most talked about teacher topics. Many teachers are changing the look and feel of their classrooms by incorporating more seating options for their students.<br />
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As a primary grade teacher, this has been the norm in my classroom. I have spent all of my teaching career creating classrooms where students have a variety of places and spaces to work. <br />
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Yet, every year, I had one or two students who struggled to "sit" to work. They need to wiggle and learn.<br />
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Like most of you, I wanted these students to be successful. I tried a variety of alternative choices like lying on the rug or using a <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/346952/Mammut-Childrens-Stool-IKEA-scandinavian-kids-step-stools-and-stools">stool</a> but found limited success.</div>
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This year, I was blessed to win a <a href="http://www.rainbowswithinreach.com/Products.asp?ACTION=CAT&CAT=158">wobble chair from Debbie Clement </a>during her weekly #TeacherFriends Twitter chat. </div>
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You do not know how this <a href="http://www.rainbowswithinreach.com/Products.asp?ACTION=CAT&CAT=158"><b><span style="color: lime; font-size: x-large;">one chair</span></b></a> changed how my student worked and learned. This little one had trouble sitting still anywhere! When I introduced the wobble chair to him, he beamed with pride. This was going to be <i>his seat</i> for learning. He was permitted to use it anytime he liked as long as he was working. </div>
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Now, you may be thinking this was not fair to my other students. While it may not seem fair, in many ways, it gave him equal access to learning. He had a place where he could move and learn. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://uwpdx.blogspot.com/2013/07/measuring-up-assessing-ourselves-on.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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At first, he took the wobble chair everywhere. Over time, he began to choose the chair only when he needed it. In fact, sometimes, he'd start at his wobble chair and by the next activity, he was ready to sit in a regular chair. </div>
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As a teacher, I noticed that with the seat, he was more focused and able to release that energy. </div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Click image to watch video.</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BE3tmZbyyxa/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">This wobble seat has worked wonders for this little one. He decides when he needs it and moves it from place to place since we do not have assigned seats. @debbie_clement distributes these. My plan is to order more for the upcoming year.</a></div>
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A video posted by Mrs.Parker (@learningwithmrsparker) on <time datetime="2016-05-01T15:58:31+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">May 1, 2016 at 8:58am PDT</time></div>
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While I do have plans to purchase more wobble chairs, I know that this is a seating alternative. It may not work for all my students. Keeping seating options flexible gives me and my students choice. </div>
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Would you want one for your classroom? I am giving <b>one away</b> to a lucky follower <span style="font-size: x-small;">(US residents only) </span>of Learning with Mrs. Parker. All you have to do is follow me via Bloglovin', Instagram <b>or </b>Twitter. </div>
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="8a35b67411" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/8a35b67411/" id="rcwidget_jxq5drlr" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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Good luck! </div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-67700963106017798892016-07-20T13:06:00.001-07:002016-07-20T13:08:39.752-07:00Self Portraits in Kindergarten<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hiofntkJAo/V4-MfNUVWqI/AAAAAAAASSk/Hfqk4EfL9KwH4k_5HA8nh2EESdSYlZAfgCLcB/s1600/Self%2BPortraits%2Bin%2BKindergarten.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="367" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hiofntkJAo/V4-MfNUVWqI/AAAAAAAASSk/Hfqk4EfL9KwH4k_5HA8nh2EESdSYlZAfgCLcB/s640/Self%2BPortraits%2Bin%2BKindergarten.png" title="Self Portraits in Kindergarten" width="710" /></a></div>
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Self portraits are perfect projects for anytime of the year. I love how they reflect the personality of the child but also teaches different types of art mediums.<br />
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Here are three different ways to create self portraits in your classroom. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><a href="http://learningwithmrsparker.blogspot.com/2015/04/self-portraits-made-easy.html">SELF PORTRAITS MADE EASY</a></b></span><br />
For the past several years, I have been using <a href="http://learningwithmrsparker.blogspot.com/2015/04/self-portraits-made-easy.html">this method</a> for drawing self portraits. Giving students a bit of a guide helps to create large portraits rather than small pieces of artwork. Once students learn this method, you can use them for other projects like this <a href="http://learningwithmrsparker.blogspot.com/2013/11/guided-drawings-of-pilgrims-and-native.html">social studies lesson</a> or <a href="http://learningwithmrsparker.blogspot.com/2015/11/how-to-draw-elf-directed-drawing.html">this one.</a><br />
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We make Self Portraits Made Easy during the first week of school. Then, again at the end of the year. Students are always astonished how different they look!<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/tTi27nyy4f/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by Mrs.Parker (@learningwithmrsparker)</a> on <time datetime="2014-09-23T22:49:55+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Sep 23, 2014 at 3:49pm PDT</time></div>
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For this self portrait project, you will need newspaper and markers. First, I prep the newspaper for my students. Each student will need an 8x11 sheet of newspaper. I suggest that you use "fun" print like the comic section rather than the headline page. Students will draw their self portrait in pencil. Then, they will use a black marker to trace their drawing. Lastly, they will color leaving their face in print. Mount on a bright colored paper like AstroBrights to add a pop of color.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OuFj90Kp08k/V4_LqIxkn8I/AAAAAAAASS0/y3WGyd0zIlYGxj5BULmr1P95hN2luNyIgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OuFj90Kp08k/V4_LqIxkn8I/AAAAAAAASS0/y3WGyd0zIlYGxj5BULmr1P95hN2luNyIgCLcB/s640/IMG_0017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>TODD PARR INSPIRED</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For these Todd Parr Inspired Self Portraits, we read many of <a href="http://www.toddparr.com/">Todd Parr's books</a>. We became familiar with his style of art. We noted that Parr used lots of bright colors. We also noticed that the faces were not the usually peach, tan and brown. Rather, people had faces of all different colors; even blue and pink! </span><span style="font-size: large;">This got many students excited! Using</span> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Neenah-Astrobrights-Premium-Assortment-Inches/dp/B003A2I6T2/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1469044023&sr=8-3&keywords=astrobright+paper+neon">AstroBright neon paper</a> and construction paper from our scrap box, we made our Todd Parr Inspired Self Portraits. Adding them to a black construction paper gave them just the "pop" needed to stand out in the crowd.<br />
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These self portrait ideas are easy to prep and create any time of the year. </div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-14334191944469231082016-07-06T15:36:00.001-07:002016-11-23T18:35:36.033-08:00A Work of Heart<center style="text-align: left;">
This past school year has been exhausting; physically and emotionally. </center>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: x-large;">Teaching Has NO On/Off Switch</span></center>
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Only a teacher or the family of a teacher can understand this. </center>
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There is no way to not think about the student who has come to school for weeks without socks. Nor to feel as you have failed because you have students who are not yet reading.</center>
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This is what teachers do. </center>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Teaching is a Work of Heart </span></center>
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As a teacher, I teach with my whole heart. Every year I fall in love with a group of students. I strive to give them the best of me every day, all day. It is hard work. I fail at times but I don't give up on myself or them. </div>
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I teach wholeheartedly because we deserve it. I have learned that as teachers we are the glue that holds the classroom together. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Teaching is My Passion</span></div>
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Little did I know that when I became a teacher, I would do so so passionately. You are not taught that teaching will be more than what you see in the classroom. Teaching takes place along the way. It's the conversations you have with a former student. The lessons you plan late into the night or the professional reading that you do willingly. It's the little things that really are BIG things. Although, I am here enjoying summer vacation, I am also reflecting about what I could do to improve, how I can make my classroom more joyous and how I can keep myself just as passionate. </div>
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Teaching is a work of heart. </div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-78206067937366209522016-05-21T06:00:00.000-07:002016-06-02T16:26:28.310-07:00#Operation55 -The Little Linebacker<center>
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I am so excited to team up with <a href="http://www.tulloch55.com/">Stephen Tulloch</a> and <a href="http://mariadismondy.com/">Maria Dismondy</a> to share with you a book about self determination and dreams. </div>
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Based on Tulloch's own life, this book shares how his passion for football and a <b>BIG dream</b> led to a successful 10 year NFL career. None of this was easy but with self determination, Tulloch was able to turn his can'ts into cans.</div>
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This is not a book just about football. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Little-Linebacker-Story-Determination/dp/098485584X">The Little Linebacker </a>teaches students to <b>DREAM BIG</b>, <b>persevere</b>, and <b>believe in yourself</b>. These are traits I teach my students all year long. </div>
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What is wonderful is that teachers and homeschoolers can access a <a href="http://www.tulloch55.com/wp-content/uploads/The-Little-Linebacker-Readers-Guide.pdf">complimentary Reader's Guide</a>. </div>
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The authors of The Little Linebacker have generously offered to giveaway a book to one reader of this blog. All you need to do is comment below. <strike>A winner will be selected on May 31st. </strike></div>
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Congratulations to Lor! Raines~<br />
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-14161009651412474972016-05-04T20:04:00.003-07:002017-04-17T17:24:23.429-07:00May the Force Be With You: Teaching Force and Motion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy May the Fourth Be With You Day!</div>
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I just wanted to quickly share how I used this Star Wars based day to teach force and motion to my class. </div>
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We dedicated the entire morning to exploring force and it how it works via hands-on centers.</div>
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First, we talked about our science vocabulary:</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="color: red;">force</span> <span style="color: lime;">motion</span> <span style="color: blue;">push</span> <span style="color: magenta;">pull</span></b></span></div>
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The objective at each center was to discover if and how you used force. They also explored what was the reaction based upon the force used. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Our centers:</b></u></span></div>
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<li>Launch Star Wars Angry Birds using various catapults</li>
<li>Build a domino maze and knock it down</li>
<li>Give stuffed animals a ride on a train</li>
<li>Bowling</li>
<li>Car races using different ramps and types of cars</li>
<li>Use Playdoh shapes to push and pull</li>
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We also went outside and pushed each other on the swings and tried to do a pull up on the monkey bars. Had time permitted, we would have pretended to ride on a roller coaster using the fun <a href="https://app.gonoodle.com/channels/koo-koo-kanga-roo/roller-coaster">GoNoodle video</a>.</div>
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It was a great day of learning. How do you teach force and motion to your kindergarten students?</div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-60756510720092867402016-04-24T20:43:00.001-07:002017-04-17T17:24:47.565-07:00Creating Green Screen VideosHave you ever wondered how to create a video using a green screen? Do you consider yourself a novice when it comes to some aspects of technology?
If you said, yes to either of these questions, I felt the same way.<br />
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For the past few weeks, my class has learned all about the weather. I knew that I wanted my students to become meteorologists. I saw many creations like <a href="https://twitter.com/mlament/status/718417182955180034/photo/1">this one</a> on Twitter that inspired me to stretch myself as a teacher and learner.<br />
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Using the app <a href="http://www.doink.com/">DoInk</a>, I was able to layer a video and image with a few easy steps.<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BEXjgVnyy2p/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Weather forecast presentations. The class had a blast creating these. #doink #greenscreen</a></div>
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A video posted by Mrs.Parker (@learningwithmrsparker) on <time datetime="2016-04-19T04:14:36+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Apr 18, 2016 at 9:14pm PDT</time></div>
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First, I found an area in my room to film. I choose a small corner which did not interfere with our day to day learning. It was a large enough area where I could hang my green screen which I created by using <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/kiwi+flannel-backed+vinyl+table+cover+52in+x+90in.do?navSet=280417">this</a>. Then, I filmed my students in front of the screen using my smartphone. <br />
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The app will merge your video and an image together to create the video. <br />
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Ta-da! You've just created a layered video! Save and your done!<br />
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I wish I could show you the videos my students created. They are as precious as they are. We had a viewing party of Friday as a conclusion of our learning. It was a great way to incorporate technology in a meaningful way.<br />
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Please note: DoInk did not ask me to write about their product. </span></span></center>
Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-84524642743979871112016-04-14T21:15:00.000-07:002016-07-06T19:58:20.877-07:00Earth Day #CardboardChallenge<br />
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This year, my class is participating in the #CardboardChallenge in honor of Earth Day.</div>
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What is the #cardboardchallenge? Inspired by the response to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faIFNkdq96U">Caine's Arcade</a>, it is a global event which invites children to create, build, and play using cardboard, recycled materials and their imagination. </div>
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I am so excited to be joining this event. We all know that a child's imagination is endless and their love for boxes is like no other. I think this is a perfect way for us to honor our Earth.</center>
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I am also excited that this builds upon all the good things in education like play, imagination, collaboration and perseverance.</center>
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<a href="http://imagination.is/our-projects/earthday/">Go here </a>for more information. You can also see what others have created via Twitter using the hashtag <a href="https://twitter.com/search?src=typd&q=%23cardboardchallenge">#cardboardchallenge</a>. </center>
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Not sure if this is for you, watch this video and be prepared to be inspired. </center>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-66175863371965962302016-03-29T08:07:00.000-07:002017-04-17T18:55:09.500-07:00Simple Science Weather Experiments <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Weather science is fun!</span></div>
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Here are a few simple science experiments that you can use in your classroom to teach about different aspects of weather. </div>
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Each is easy to do but yields high student engagement and learning.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><span style="color: red;">RAI</span><span style="color: orange;">NB</span><span style="color: yellow;">OW</span> <span style="color: #38761d;">IN</span> <span style="color: blue;">A </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">JAR</span></span></u></span></div>
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Rainbows are always a hot topic in my classroom. For some reason, kindergarteners LOVE rainbows. They can not get enough of them. They write about them. Draw them and talk about them. </div>
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My class could not believe when I told them that we were going to make a rainbow. </div>
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You'll need some mason jars. </div>
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Fill the jars with water.</div>
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Add food coloring.</div>
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Assemble in a sunny spot.</div>
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Watch your rainbow appear.</div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;"><u>RAIN IN A JAR</u></span></div>
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This simple science weather experiment in always a hit. (Just look at her mouth in amazement.)</div>
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The shaving cream acts as the cloud.</div>
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Water in a vase or jar represents the water in our atmosphere, lakes, oceans and other places.</div>
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Food coloring is the water vapor which becomes rain.</div>
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By creating a rain cloud, you can show how water vapor absorbs in a cloud. Once it is heavy enough, rain begins.</div>
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Afterwards, we used our new learning to create an interactive writing piece. Working with groups of students, I could differentiate the content based on student need.</div>
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<span style="color: cyan; font-size: x-large;"><u>WIND CATCHER </u></span></div>
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Who knew learning about wind could be so fun?! We did three simple science experiments based on wind but these wind catchers were their favorite.</div>
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We learned that wind is moving air. Our wind catchers helped us see it. </div>
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Simply tie a piece of yarn around the handles of a plastic bag to make your wind catcher. If it is windy enough, you can even run and "fly" your wind catcher. </div>
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There you have it! Simple weather science experiments that will have you and your students engaged!</div>
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Happy Learning!</div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-72253759539162077742016-03-01T19:54:00.000-08:002017-02-26T21:33:45.375-08:00My Many Colored Days Emotions Writing<center>
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Learning to express one's emotions is difficult. My class has worked for weeks talking about what actions make us feel different emotions. I have tried to model and be clear of expressing how I feel when a child disappoints me or makes me feel proud. </div>
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Well, because I have many students who are unable to express their feelings. And, at times, resort to hitting or yelling to express their needs. I knew that I needed to support them but also to give them the words to share appropriately about their emotions. </div>
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This week, we are working on including emotions as writers. I decided to incorporate My Many Colored Days by Dr. Seuss into our learning for Read Across America. This book seamlessly weaves color and emotions. </div>
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I created these <span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1wx2JcMUOXjObD2IE9bymWFarDKKX50OgWILdZOFnmiE/edit?usp=sharing">sentence starters</a> </span>for my class and used <a href="http://omazingkidsllc.com/2011/10/20/my-many-colored-days-explore-feelings-through-colors-movement-and-music-an-omazing-kids-yoga-activity/">this template</a> to create a Many Colored Person. The students simply placed tissue paper onto the template and I laminated it. This could also been completed by using contact paper. <br />
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Here are the finished mobiles. I love how it brightens our room.<br />
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This was a perfect way to talk about our many colored days. </div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-2975932638351883772016-02-27T20:30:00.005-08:002016-02-27T20:34:07.947-08:00A Look at My Week Instagram Style<center>
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Instagram has become one of my favorite ways to share what is happening in my classroom. Here are a few Instagram photos I shared this week my<a href="https://www.instagram.com/learningwithmrsparker/"> IG account.</a> </div>
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Recently, I became one of our school's writing coaches. The program we are using has some scripted activities but allows us to teach creatively and to use practices that best support the needs of our students. My kids are loving the TPR that is included throughout the unit.</div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BCDb4VGSy4e/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Do you ever wonder what you look like while teaching? Here is a snippet of a recent writing lesson. #iteachk #iteachtoo #teachersofinstagram #thmpride #teachersfollowteachers</a></div>
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A video posted by Mrs.Parker (@learningwithmrsparker) on <time datetime="2016-02-21T15:40:22+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 21, 2016 at 7:40am PST</time></div>
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Instagram has become one of my favorite teacher resources for "must have" items. I am using these Scoop Rockers with a few of my kiddos who have difficulty during whole group lessons on the rug. I am finding that they are more focused and less disruptive.<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BB7wg4qSywj/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">When the Scoop Rockers you have been seeing on IG match your classroom colors you know it was meant to be. #iteachtoo #flexibleseating #thmpride #teachersfollowteachers #teachersofinstagram</a></div>
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A photo posted by Mrs.Parker (@learningwithmrsparker) on <time datetime="2016-02-18T16:06:45+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 18, 2016 at 8:06am PST</time></div>
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This bulletin board is one of my favorites spots in my classroom. I can easily change out what is on display. Currently, hanging are our first research reports. I love that I can integrate technology but also continue to do age appropriate arts and crafts.<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BCHFLWeSywq/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">We completed our first research reports. On the blog I explain how I use hyperlinks to let my students independently research via #googleclassroom. #iteachk #iteachtoo #TechinK #teachersfollowteachers #thmpride</a></div>
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A photo posted by Mrs.Parker (@learningwithmrsparker) on <time datetime="2016-02-23T01:38:57+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 22, 2016 at 5:38pm PST</time></div>
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I think that the most teachable moments sometimes come at the spur of the moment. My students were captivated by this lizard. It became our classroom pet for the day.<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BCJq9CMyy06/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">The class found this lizard at the beginning of the day. It became our writing topic. #teachersofinstagram #iteachtoo #iteachk #teachersfollowteachers</a></div>
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A photo posted by Mrs.Parker (@learningwithmrsparker) on <time datetime="2016-02-24T01:47:32+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 23, 2016 at 5:47pm PST</time></div>
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Finally, here's a pic I shared of our city during a typical California winter. <br />
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A photo posted by Mrs.Parker (@learningwithmrsparker) on <time datetime="2016-02-28T01:24:39+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 27, 2016 at 5:24pm PST</time></div>
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<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>Do you love Instagram? I'd love to connect with you there too. Follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/learningwithmrsparker/">Instagram</a>.<br />
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I'm linking up with Doodles Bug Teaching.<br />
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Happy Photo Sharing!</div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-32824035725423263292016-02-21T21:20:00.002-08:002016-02-21T21:20:56.097-08:00Creating a Hyperlink to Use In Google Classroom<center>
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Hyperlinks. What are they? And, why would you use them in the classroom? More specifically with Google Classroom. </div>
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A hyperlink, more commonly known as link, is a word, phrase or image that you click on that takes you to another site or document. </div>
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I have been using hyperlinks with my kindergarten students for several reasons. First of all, this is one way to deliver content to my students that does not involve me. Students are able to learn using 21st century skills; collaborating with a peer or group while using digital tools. Students have as much time as they need when the assignment is given via a platform such as Google Classroom. I am a facilitator rather than the person delivering knowledge. Students are given full responsibility of their learning.</div>
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Creating a hyperlink is easy. I like using Google Slides but any #GAFE tool would work. First, I create a directions page and embed the link usually on an image like seen below. To do this, you would highlight the word or image and go to Insert link. </div>
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Easy peasy. </div>
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When students access their document via Google Classroom, they would see the directions page first. By using a simple icon and the words Click Here, students know instantly what to do. When students click on the hyperlink, the link will appear on the bottom as shown. Students click the blue linked line and are "taken" to the site that you directed them to. </div>
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The possibilities are endless. </div>
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Would you like to see what the document looks like? <a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1SIdYd43BsmhS-Q8QN-Od9BmWug0Ep_iOqKXuNgGRtbY/edit?usp=sharing">Click here for a sample of how you could use Brain Pop Jr. to introduce US symbols.</a> </div>
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Have you tried using hyperlinks with your students? I would be fascinated to see what you are doing with your students. </div>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6128254571645546160.post-18512767611841617852016-01-31T14:45:00.001-08:002017-02-26T21:34:51.870-08:00Groundhog Day Books and a Freebie<center>
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Groundhog Day is almost here! This is such a fun day for exploring our shadows. Over the years, I have collected some great books that I love to read aloud or add to our listening center.</div>
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My all time favorite read aloud is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ten-Grouchy-Groundhogs-Kathryn-Heling/dp/0545134145">Ten Grouchy Groundhogs</a>. I purchased the audio version years ago from Scholastic and it is always a big hit in our classroom. It is so cute to hear my students chanting along with the story.</center>
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We usually begin subtraction during this month so <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ten-Grouchy-Groundhogs-Kathryn-Heling/dp/0545134145">this title</a> lends itself naturally to learning how to subtract. </center>
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This <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7evBiXkMcxWbnBVU3QtZ2k4Vms/view?usp=sharing">Grouchy Groundhog Freebie</a> can be used while you read the story or it can be used by students to create their own subtraction sentence. </center>
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Have a great Groundhog Day! Here's to an early spring!</center>
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Learning with Mrs. Parkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17531829108247730123noreply@blogger.com1