While on the one hand it is silly that people need to prove that playing with blocks works, I am glad there is a realization that play and less structure are good for kids! See this New York Times Article for more
Dear Mountain Room Parents
Ah, being back in the classroom this year has been a wonderful return. This article from the New Yorker (Day of the Dead or Halloween) was shared with me and has kept me laughing for the last week as I think about this funny and wonderful work we do as teachers.
Posted in Humor, Reading
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Hamlet’s Blackberry
The day I began reading Hamlet’s Blackberry by William Powers was also the day I returned my Smartphone in exchange for a simpler model that has no internet access. I found the coincidence great, and am enjoying the book and the arguments he makes that our challenge to define our relationship with technology is not new, but has existed before. I too found that my Smartphone was moving into my life in ways I questioned. Last night when we lost power and internet I was blissfully happy to not check my email, or feel the sense of someone waiting for me. All of this makes me realize my gradual shift to the connected life, and now my desire to be more conscious of how and when I connect and disconnect. Highly recommend the book and the thinking it has inspired for me.
Posted in Book Review, Reading, Technology
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Maine Early Childhood Educators interested in ipads
Spent the morning in Auburn with a group of educators who are interested in using ipads to support early childhood students. It was great to hear how thoughtful and concerned this group is as they think about the benefits and potential drawbacks of using these devices with our youngest students. There is a great wiki set up to continue to the conversation and share resources. During the meeting I also realized that it is time for me to start blogging again, and making sure that I join the conversation instead of just listen in!
Posted in Professional Development, Technology
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Math Professional Development
I attended a great professional development on Friday April 29th. It was hosted by Syntiro and featured Bea Luchin. Some of the materials are available here
Posted in Teaching
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