Category Archives: Uncategorized

Motivation Magic

I don’t know about you, but before I undertake a new project or challenge, I definitely need to psych myself up. For example, if I’m going to take the time, trouble and money to redo a room, I visualize the … Continue reading

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Summer Read-Aloud Challenge

Happy First Day of Summer!  It’s finally arrived and no doubt you and your family have high expectations for the days ahead. The end of school signals a change in the family routine and as the song says, “the living … Continue reading

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Reconnect Through Reading

Of late, I’ve not been able to blog because of yet another broken wrist. Hard to believe that I could break a wrist last July and again in May when we went to Arizona. Both times, it happened on a … Continue reading

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6 Important Read-Aloud Reminders

Happy World Read Aloud Day!  As you gear up to read to your child and hopefully integrate this practice in your home on a regular basis, here are a few reminders to optimize the experience. Choose a text you enjoy  … Continue reading

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What Do We Celebrate Tomorrow?

Do you know what is celebrated around the world tomorrow, February 1st?  It’s not the birthday of a famous person, it’s not the anniversary of a special event, but it is a day that honors a wonderful practice that I’m … Continue reading

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Five Easy Ways to Boost Background Knowledge

My husband is a huge football fan. As soon as August begins, those fantasy football magazines start popping up around the house. One day, I decided to delve into one and learn a little about football. I could easily read … Continue reading

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Picture Books: Building Blocks of Background Knowledge & Confidence

Over the years, I’ve worked with students of all ages, from primary grade kids right up to graduate students. Picture books were a common element in everyone one of my classes. Why?  Because I believe picture books have power.  A … Continue reading

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Does My Child Need Help? Ten Warning Signs of a Struggling Reader

RECOGNIZE THE PROBLEM  As parents, we desperately want life to be joyful and problem-free for our children. It’s not always easy to address problems or uncomfortable situations. Obviously, the first step in helping your child become a more confident, proficient … Continue reading

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M-A-G-I-C Books Turn Kids into Readers

  Tale of a Magic Book I’ll never forget the first time I saw the magic at work. It was well into October and one of my students had yet to finish a book. It was like he was allergic … Continue reading

Posted in Black History, Choosing books, Motivation, Uncategorized | 2 Comments

Worried about your child’s reading?

After learning more about blogging and reflecting on how I can best serve readers of this blog, I’ve decided to direct posts to parents of children in Grade 4 through 7 who are reluctant readers or readers who need support … Continue reading

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