Summer Reads and Learning Opportunities for Early Childhood Educators

 

The school year is winding down, giving way to the precious summer break! After months of hustle and bustle, summer is the perfect time to strike a balance between relaxation and professional growth. It is a time to rejuvenate, dive into some fun professional development, and grab a splash of inspiration.

One event that I’m really excited about is the Elevate Your Classroom Conference in Nashville this summer. I am a HUGE fan and was not able to attend last year. So, Nashville, here I come! Conferences are fantastic opportunities to connect with fellow educators, attend inspiring workshops, and gain fresh ideas.

Speaking of inspiration, I just finished reading "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson, and it was such a great spark to kick off the summer. Bryson's humorous and insightful account of hiking the Appalachian Trail reminded me of the importance of taking time for exploring new horizons, and for reconnecting with what brings us joy. With this in mind, I thought I’d share some reading suggestions for your summer break.

1. The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl: This captivating novel transports you to the enchanting streets of Paris. Reichl, renowned for her culinary writing, weaves a tale rich with food, culture, and romance. It’s a perfect read for those lazy summer afternoons when you can sip iced tea and get lost in a different world.

While leisure reading is essential for unwinding, dedicating a portion of your summer to professional learning can keep you engaged with the latest educational research and strategies. Here are three insightful books that can help enhance your teaching practice:

1. The Knowledge Gap by Natalie Wexler: This book addresses a critical issue in education – the disparity in knowledge among students. Wexler explores how the lack of content-rich curricula contributes to this gap and offers practical solutions for educators. It’s a must-read for anyone committed to closing the educational divide and ensuring equitable learning opportunities for all students.

1. The Literacy 50 by Julie Wright and Barry Hoonan: Wright and Hoonan provide a comprehensive guide to fostering literacy in young learners. This book is packed with 50 practical strategies to enhance reading and writing skills in the classroom. These techniques can make a significant impact on your students’ literacy development.

1. Working Memory and Learning: A Practical Guide for Teachers by Susan Gathercole and Tracy Packiam Alloway: Understanding the role of working memory in learning is crucial for educators. This guide offers practical insights and strategies to support students with working memory challenges, helping them succeed academically. Integrating these approaches into your teaching can better support all learners.

Summer is all about finding a balance between relaxation and professional growth. I hope you are able to take this time to recharge in whatever way brings you joy!

Here’s to a summer filled with relaxation, inspiration, and rejuvenation.

Happy reading and learning!

TP @SparkingCreativityNow

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