Haven’t seen me here for a while? I’ve been using my precious blogging time to really listen to my kids, get some extra exercise happening, paying attention to my husband, cooking some wholesome meals (okay…at least I try) and I … Continue reading →

“You don’t learn stuff from bad teachers, you just learn stuff about bad teachers.” These are the exact words from a conversation between three boys aged 11-14 today. I know because the conversation took place in my car. Something to think about?

Dan Haesler – teacher, blogger, speaker, Positive Psychology advocate and colleague – has done a fantastic post this week titled “Kids Shouldn’t Go To School.” I think every teacher should take the time to read and ponder over the essential … Continue reading →

I used to think that “fair” means that everybody gets the same, but thanks to Richard Lovoie, I came to understand a few years ago that “fair” actually means “getting what you need.” Mrs Saylor, over at Salylor’s Log, uses … Continue reading →

Ever had your child coming home from school with that, “Worst day of my life!” thing happening? You know those days when they really do feel that the world is coming down on them? I once received this fantastic advice/strategy … Continue reading →

He kicks up a big fuss about reading. Says he hates it. Won’t go near a chapter book. Last week I celebrated because he got lost…in a book. Guess what I caught him doing at lunchtime today? Reading a book … Continue reading →

If you had to draw your thinking, what would it look like? I was blown away by the massive effect this simple question had on my students! Just look at their thinking. I’m sure you will be totally surprised at … Continue reading →

I finally made it to the end of Donalyn Miller’s book…I could have devoured the whole book in one sitting, but unfortunately time is always an issue. I love Donalyn’s writing voice – she is a successful teacher sharing her … Continue reading →

Did you know that as you grow up, you build the house you are going to live in one day? When I teach students, I like to use the analogy of building a house when viewing the choices they make. … Continue reading →

“Thank you for the sandwiches,” said my father into the phone recently. When my father was a young boy at boarding school, he detested the daily jam sandwiches he was given to take to school for lunch. A school friend called … Continue reading →