Community Helpers

I just wanted to share the Career/ Community Helpers Cards I found in the dollar section of Target! All cards are two sided with different careers on each side. They are very first grade friendly.:) Sorry the picture is so dark, when I took it with a flash there was a horrible glare!

I also want to share Smelly Stamps! Maybe some of you have heard of this concept. When my kids line up quietly they get a "Smelly Stamp" or a little bit of chap stick on the back of their hand. I usually have my kids rest their hand on their heads to show me they are ready. :) This is a big hit every year with my students!

These are not dollar store ones (but they have many like this at the dollar tree)

The Book Whisperer- Intro and Chapter 1

I am reading The Book Whisperer and am going to respond to discussion questions that the others who are  reading the book are answering :)

How did you feel as you started reading? What were your first thoughts, connections, insights?

I felt anxious to know how she accomplished instilling the love of reading on to her students. I myself love to read and  a lot of what Donalyn Miller was saying about reading pertained to me. I love to read, and to be taken to "another world" by a book.

Were you like me and finally felt as though you had found someone who was speaking your language?

Yes, someone who loved reading as much as I do. I always find it unfortunate when a student does not like to read.

Which part jumped out at you and made you say "aha!! I knew it"?

Even though I do know this, I think we all need reminders here and there- I really needed that reminder that it is important that a child find a book they are interested in. I wouldn't want to read a book I am not interested in, who would?

If you are interested in checking out the book with is, please visit:

Here is the wordie I created using quotes from the book!

No matter what I tried to do I could not make it appear bigger or get rid of the blue box! 

Sea Animal Group Cards

 Even though it is summer and I should be doing "nothing" - I can't help but use my time wisely making things for my classroom. I made these Sea Animal cards that I plan to use for groups. I might put them on book bins for reading logs that go home or center cards for groups. 


Animal Group Cards

Reading Logs

Hello! This is my first attempt at a blog and my first attempt at posting things I make. I made some reading logs and will post them below. Have a great Thursday!


Reading Log Apples 2


Reading Log School 2