A Website for Making Children’s Books

Early Math Counts — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 10:58:25 +0000

Last July I wrote about children’s bookmaking as an activity that naturally supports early literacy but can also support early math. Click here and here to see some of those ideas.

This morning, I received the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media‘s monthly newsletter. They have developed a free program where children can author their own stories. They have a program for 0-3 year olds, as well as one for older preschoolers. I think this may be worth exploring as the My Storymaker was voted one of the best websites for teaching and learning by the National Association of School Librarians.

Check it out.

Look For the Helpers

Early Math Counts — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 20:18:21 +0000

I’ve thought a lot over the weekend about the events that transpired in Connecticut this past Friday, as I am sure you all have as well. I considered writing something about protecting children from the media, but that seemed too obvious. Professionals who work with young children and parents who live with young children must know that there are no media outlets who are broadcasting or writing news that is appropriate in any way for young children.

So I thought I would share a quote from Fred Rogers that seems appropriate at this time.

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”

This is sound advice and an appropriate response to very young children who have questions. Older children may need more detail, but that should come from the trusting adults in their lives rather than the news.

Peace.

Fred Rogers – Early Math Counts

A Website for Making Children’s Books

Look For the Helpers

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”