A CELEBRATION OF ALL THINGS ROUND

There is no better place to observe the different scales and dimensions of the natural world than in the study of the circle in nature and its related forms.  This is a  delightful celebration of all things round… curves, spirals, orbs, and bubbles of full-bodied beauty.  AND….The comfort of  this perfect form can also be felt… Read More

A RAFT OF OTTERS

The interconnectivity of the underwater ecosystem is essential to its own vitality. The sea otter is a critical component in this web of life, and maintains its role as the “Keeper of the Kelp”. Kelp plays one of the most important roles, not only in the ocean, but on Earth, as it harbors life and sequesters… Read More

DOGS AND CATS ALL AROUND US

How many times have you heard children squeal in joy at the sight of a dog or cat, spurring them to run at animals who may or may not be comfortable with strangers? It’s never too early to teach our children that every living creature deserves kindness, and it’s important they also know the safe way… Read More

MATH IS NOT A SPECTATOR SPORT

Being a competent and confident problem solver is central to the mathematical development of all our learners.  Math activities that enable children to explore and work from their own level of understanding, and then build on this towards new understandings is the goal. “Problem-solving is not only a goal of learning mathematics but also a major… Read More

“I AM MYSELF!”

What makes an individual that person? Are we the sum of our parts? If you lose a piece of yourself, are you still you? What is the relationship between our bodies and who we are? This book is about community, tolerance and ingenuity. It is as timeless, as are the problems it addresses. ******************************************************** Leo Lionni’s … Read More

TINY, PERFECT THINGS

“My advice to the person suffering from lack of time and from apathy is this:  Seek out each day as many as possible of the small joys.”             Hermann Hesse The little joys … they are so inconspicuous and scattered so liberally throughout our daily lives that many times, we hardly notice… Read More

A Most Misunderstood Reptile

They’re slithery and scaly, and they have icky, flicking tongues and creepy, unblinking eyes. What’s to like about a snake? You’d be surprised! ********************** Author –  Nicola Davies Illustrator –  Luciano Lozano This little girl has a problem. Her family doesn’t have dogs, or cats, or birds—they have snakes! And she really, really, really really doesn’t… Read More

“I Love My White Shoes”

Pete the Cat teaches us that sometimes we can make the situation better through our attitude, and sometimes by the way in which we solve the problem.  Being content with what you have is an enduring lesson in this story.  Pete the Cat’s contentment is clearly not only with his shoes but also with his life. … Read More

“Going Deep” in Math

Encouraging our children to “go deep” in math can increase motivation, help them learn how to think and reason, and yes, even make math fun!  Many incorrectly believe that being good at mathematics means being fast at mathematics.  Supporting our children to think slowly and deeply about complex problems,  builds skills important to mathematical competence.  We… Read More

The Trouble with Snap Judgements

What is the opposite of a friend? Is it a stranger, is it an enemy, or is it something else?  Enemy Pie is a touching story with the message that bullying is not okay, and that it is possible to become friends with anyone if you are willing to try. It is a priceless lesson about… Read More