Write Away

April 24, 2015

Verdi Starts the Day

In one school in which I was principal, I played classical music over the intercom to start every day. It created a happy atmosphere and gave every adult and child something to share. It’s easy to build good connections using pieces from Verdi’s operas, especially when a student says “I know that one!” Integrating music into Continue reading

Music, Teaching and Learning

opera, school culture, Verdi
April 23, 2015

Ultramarine Utopia

There’s nothing like the blues of the ocean for clearing the head, lifting the spirit, and finding utopia. Every season at the beach has its unique beauty and tone. One teacher colleague of mine believed this was essential science for children. She took her class on an annual field trip to her Maine beach house, to teach them about Continue reading

Science, Social and emotional development, Teaching and Learning

color, natural world, teaching science
April 22, 2015

Teddy the Terrier

What’s blue and tan and smart all over? Meet my nine-year-old Yorkie, Teddy. Don’t assume what you read about Yorkshire terriers to be true, like making good lap dogs. For Teddy, this is 10%. He cuddles when he feels like it and if the conditions are right. (Is the crook of your knee available? Will you Continue reading

Reading, Science, Social and emotional development, Teaching and Learning

assumption, dogs, Yorkie
April 21, 2015

Your Story Through Song

Songs connect us to all of humankind and tell our story from the earliest days of human history. You have songs that tell the story of your life, too. Did you sing while you did chores? Rode in the car? During play? Think about the earliest songs that hold meaning for you. My father sang I’ll Take Continue reading

Arts, Music, Social and emotional development, Speaking and listening, Storytelling, Teaching and Learning

autobiography, biography, learning songs, memoir
April 19, 2015

Quoth the Ravens? “Watch Me Parent.”

The ravens at Wellesley College, in Wellesley MA, have returned for a second year and are caring for three nestlings. Watch them live on Wellesley’s Ravencam. Check my 2014 post about them. The ideas I shared for teachers are terrific activities for parents to use during April school vacation. This year, I am mesmerized by Continue reading

Arts, Science at Home, Teaching and Learning

Birds, children, observing

Verdi Starts the Day

Ultramarine Utopia

Teddy the Terrier

Your Story Through Song

Quoth the Ravens? “Watch Me Parent.”