A New Spin

After reading a number of traditional versions of Goldilocks and the Three Bears I came across this delightful version which takes the classic fairytale and gives it a new spin.  Cindy Meyers' account of Goldilocks misadventures follows the basic traditional storyline but changes things up by having Baby Bear use a wheelchair to get around.  As well, Baby Bear has a very comfy bed that has a remote control to make it go up and down.  Of course, Goldilocks' innate curiousity gets the best of her as she discovers these unique items.  The story also ends in a very different way sending a lovely message of inclusivity and cooperation.

As I introduced the book to the children in my class I asked them what they noticed about the picture on the front cover.  Here are their responses:
"There is Goldilocks."
"I see flowers."
"There is a butterfly."
"They are outside."
"They look happy."
"Where is the Mama Bear and Papa Bear."
"They are outside in the woods."
I was surprised (and delighted) that no one seemed to notice anything unusual in the fact that Baby Bear was in a wheelchair.  


Sometimes I think children should run the world.

Kindergarten Kingdom

November can be a dreary month.  The festive orange pumpkins and bright fall foliage of autumn have been put away.  The tinsel and gingerbread are not yet ready to make their Christmas appearance.  And so we arrive at a month that can be rather bleak.  To combat this dilemma I have designated November as Fairy Tale month each year.  What could be more magical than sprouting beanstalks, industrious pigs, and magic carpets?


Most Kindergarten classroom have a dress-up center in the form of a large playhouse.  Often featuring plastic food, small dishes, an assortment of clothes to change into, and baby dolls to care for.  It is a great place to practice the business of being an adult and running a household.  But suppose you were destined for a greater calling... perhaps a position in a royal family.  What is a little king, queen, or knight to do?  Each November my house center magically transforms into a posh fairytale castle with a wardrobe bursting with crowns, capes, and scepters for those that choose to play there.  And we are never too alarmed if a grouchy stomping giant shows up or a menacing witch planning to brew up a powerful potion swoops in!

People notice the details!  The coat of arms is my cat Fernando's.  
I liked the visual of the dragon and the little castle icons around it.

Of course the design of the castle in my classroom was greatly influenced by Sleeping Beauty Castle at my favourite place on earth... Disneyland!  

My favourite place with my favourite person... life is good!  
The coat of arms on this castle belongs to the Disney family.

Simply the Best

Today I had the privilege of visiting teacher extraordinaire Jill Greco at Lago Lindo School. What a treat is was for me to watch a master teacher in action for the entire morning.  Jill truly maximizes the learning for her Kindergarten students from the way she has arranged the furniture in her classroom to the laid-back way she delivers a lesson.  As well, Jill takes organization to a whole new level... a definite must for any teacher looking to brave the untamed world of Kindergarten!  Just like an Olympic figure skater or a great musician in an orchestra, Jill makes her job look effortless and easy.  The fact of the matter is, years of practice, untold hours of preparation, and sheer day-to-day determination can be credited to that effortless demeanor.


I realized today that many of the activities and ideas that are most successful in my own classroom have come from Jill and a handful of other exemplary teachers that I have been lucky enough to know.  The Greek philosopher Epictetus said "The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best."  I'm so thankful that Jill has shared her expertise with me over the years and hope that I can return the favour.