The Blog
The Importance of Growth Mindset
I’ve shared a little bit about growth mindset in other posts here on the blog, but I can’t believe I haven’t dedicated an entire post to the important concept. Growth mindset is a way of thinking that can transform your…
First Chapter Fridays and Novel Read-Aloud Engagement Tips
Are you looking for an engaging way to introduce your students to new books, authors, and genres they might not have explored otherwise? Then you need to give First Chapter Fridays a try! This simple approach can build excitement and…
“Giggles and Grammar” Curriculum for Upper Elementary
The thought of teaching grammar in upper elementary can often be met with groans, from both students AND teachers. As teachers, we often face a lack of resources to teach grammar. District grammar curriculum resources (if we have them) are…
Meaningful Early Finisher Activities
If you’ve ever heard, “I’m finished! Now what?” and mentally panicked because you didn’t have options, we’re going to solve that today! No matter how carefully you plan your instruction, you’re still likely to have students who finish tasks early…
How To Build Connections and Student Relationships with Success Stickers
When the sticker craze started a few years ago, I knew I wanted to jump on the train as soon as possible. However, I have only worked in Responsive Classroom or Love and Logic schools that deemphasize extrinsic awards (and…
Upper Elementary Halloween Literacy Activities
Are you ready to brew up some fun Halloween-themed literacy activities this October? You’re in the right place because we’ve conjured a spellbinding list of upper elementary Halloween literacy activities that are perfect for your upper elementary students! Your students…
The Best Morning Work Activities
If you’ve ever found yourself looking around your classroom in the morning and thinking things are a little…. Chaotic, then this post with morning work activities is for you! We’ve all been there, especially as newer teachers. There are just…
Teaching With a Mountain VieW Resource Guide
Do you ever feel like you’re constantly racing against the prep period clock when you’re trying to find the right resources for your classroom? You’re not alone! Many teachers find themselves overwhelmed with the endless choices out there, wondering how…
Gifted Enrichment Tips for the General Education Classroom
If you’re a general education classroom teacher, you know that every student in your class has unique needs and challenges. When it comes to gifted learners, their inquisitiveness and ability to grasp concepts quickly can keep you on your toes…
Book Recommendations | Building Community | Classroom | Literacy | Novels & Picture Books | Picture Books | Picture Books
Using Picture Books to Help Students Build Relationship Skills
Using picture books in your classroom can do wonders for your students’ literacy skills while also helping them build relationship skills. These picture books support your students’ social and emotional growth. Through the stories and themes in these books, you…
A Full Year of Literacy Read-Alouds and Activities
It’s no secret that I love a good picture book for reading aloud or to accompany my current topic of study, even in upper elementary! In this post, I’ll share 12 of my favorite picture books and related literacy activities…
Back to School | Book Recommendations | Free | Homeschool | Literacy | Novels & Picture Books | Professional Development | The Parent Connection
The Best Upper Elementary Books and Free Printable Bookmarks
If your students’ parents are anything like mine, they’re eager for tips and resources to use with their children at home. Most parents are happy to help but aren’t sure where to start. One of my favorite tips for parents…
