Say whatttttttttttttttttt....You don't like to read?????

Today I was working with a teacher and overheard a student say "They didn't like to read."  The teacher said you have not found the right story.  We looked at each other and commented how we loved toread.  I read all the time.  I have always enjoyed reading and am thrilled Diva is picking up the habit.  She is a Magic Tree House fool.  I remember going to the library as a child and getting as many books as could be checked out.  My parents read, as do my siblings.  Reading is my major source of relaxation and I look forward to my monthly book club meeting.

It saddens me when kids say they don't like to read or worse....I will just watch the movie.  Yeah, that is totally the same!!!  The info graphic linked below shows some real life impacts of literacy.   In today's world, literacy is like the key to the kingdom.  Your options are so limited if you are unable to read and comprehend the written word.  This graphic shows ways to motivate hesitate readers and even recommends apps that can help.

If you know someone, especially a child, who does not enjoy reading PLEASE encourage them to seek out their interest in books or read to them your favorite book to foster that love.  And it occurred to me as I was writing this I was hearing the theme song to PBS's Reading Rainbow in my head.

Reading Matters Infographic

Resolutions--a blessing or a curse?

Hello and Happy Year,

Don't you just love the New Year.  It brings such promise and everyone is aspiring to be their self version of themselves.  That last until....well, sweet little girls are selling cookies.  Diva is a Brownie so I know!   Why do we  repeatedly make resolutions we can not or will not keep?

The classroom is no different.  We vow to change our ways each year and yet fall prey to the old habits.  This year I encourage you to break free of those practices that trip you up and cause frustration and chaos in the classroom.  Linked below is a PDF study guide for the book, The Power of Habit.  The chapters are summarized and activities follow to help you achieve a true shift in your habits.  Growth is a risk but so worth it for the reward of new insight and change.

Make 2015 the year you clean house of those things that hold you back as an educator.  We can ALL find areas of improvement and aspects of our professional life that need growth.  Seek out a book study, podcast or find a mentor to help make this year the best one yet!

Until next month....

The Power of Habit Study Guide