Teacher Mama

source

If you are a teacher of young children, you understand this.  But in all reality, you also understand that this is totally true. Inside my classroom, I am their Teacher Mama.

Just this week, I had a little girl walk over as I was giving my son a good bye hug say, "I wish I was your girl."  I told her that she already was. Each year, I am entrusted to care and mentor 20 or so children. Every year is a bit different.  But one thing remains the same, I love the students I teach and only want the best for them.  I want them to succeed in school but more importantly, in life.

5

The Joy of Teaching

What keeps you passionate about teaching?  This thought has been on my mind a lot lately.  I love teaching. Yet, with 5 more weeks to go, I can think of nothing better than summer vacation.

And, then, this happens.  

Those little moments in the classroom when you know, this is why you go in early and plan for hours on the weekend.

Playing School

Three of my kiddos had pulled up their chairs and selected a "just right" Bob Book to read.  I was so proud of them because learning how to read has been a challenge for them.  Yet, they did not give up.  They rose to the challenge.

Go here for more inspiration.

What keeps you going?

From my classroom to yours,

4

Teacher Appreciation Giveaway

I am so honored to be a teacher.  I am just as humbled to have you share my journey as a teacher by reading this blog.  Each day, I am inspired to do better because of you.  Your ideas, units, crafts, recommendations, and comments keep me going.

I can not think of a better way to say "Thank you" than by hosting a giveaway.  Recently, I was contacted by EAI to review a few of their products.  

My class and I used these  Ten Frame Match Games as part of our Math Routines and Math Work Stations. Oh, my!  I love these!  They are Common Core aligned and address many of the skills that my students needed additional practice with for mastery. 

I also was able to sample their SmartPAL Jr. Sleeves.  

The protective sleeves are sturdy and erase easily and cleanly.  Children can place the paper in the sleeve on their own.  The colors and size is great, too.  In fact, I have contemplated using them as displays for my student's writing and artwork due to the quality of this item.  

EAI has graciously agreed to give a set of these SmartPAL Jr. Sleeves to a Follower of my blog.  To enter, comment below with your email address.

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, leave the name of your favorite childhood teacher or a teacher that inspires you today.  I will select a winner on Saturday, May 12th.  

In addition, EAI is offering an exclusive offer to Followers of my blog.  You will get free shipping for orders over $30 by entering this code: LWMPFREESHP13.  

Update:  Winner selected and notified via email.  

Thank you for sharing your teacher stories.  These stories were great reminders that we can make a difference in a child's life and future.

Happy Teaching!


Giveaway is open to US residents only.  
All opinions of these products are my own.

33

Journey to Neverland

This week we have been on an adventure to Neverland preparing to see a local production of Peter Pan. Our inspiration was this pop up book.  Each day we read one page from the book and followed up with an activity.

Here are a few samples of our learning.   

We've written about Peter Pan, answered whether we would like to be a kid like Peter or grow up and if we believe in fairies.

These Peter Pan themed math cards help reenforce ways to make a given number.

Imagination is the key to this math game as kids Walk the Plank to solve the math problem.

One of the highlights has been seeing a classroom full of Peter Pans!  I drew a simple pattern and folded it a bit in the front to give it more character.

The adventure continues next week.  We can't wait!

Happy Teaching!

4