Elevating Early Childhood

Hello everyone, and welcome back to a brand new episode of Elevating Early Childhood.

Guess what?

This week's episode is another amazing interview, with the one and only Dan St. Romain!

Dan is a brilliant author and consultant with 30 years of experience in the education field.

He has served as an educational diagnostician AND a behavior specialist on an early childhood campus, so, all in all, Dan really knows what he's talking about!

And today, he's here to discuss how to communicate behavior to parents when you're not using behavior charts.

If you've listened to last week's episode (if you haven't yet, tune in here), then you know my take on behavior charts: I don't think they’re necessary.

But even if we don't use them, we can still keep parents in the loop about their children's behavior.

How?

Tune in now to find out!

Key Takeaways:

Is daily feedback useful? (00:00)

Meet today's guest! (02:08)

Daily feedback: Yay or nay? (04:09)

No news is good news! (10:48)

Strategies you can use (14:35)

Be the voice of hope (20:25)

Intermittent communication is important (26:30)

Prevention vs. intervention (28:25)

Additional Resources:

- Visit our website to find tons of pre-K teaching resources here.

- Get my book “Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers”.

- Learn more about my exclusive mentorship program, “Teaching Trailblazers”.

- Check out the first part of this episode here.

- For more info about behavior charts, click here.

- Learn more about Dan St. Romain here.

- Get a copy of Teach Skills and Break Habits: Growth Mindsets for Better Behavior in the Classroom by Dan St. Romain here.

Elevating Early Childhood is an early education podcast dedicated to helping Pre-K, Preschool, and Kindergarten teachers teach better, save time, and live more.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

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Onward & Upward!

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Disclaimer:

Pre-K Pages is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. The word “affiliate” means that we may earn a small commission if/when you click on or make purchases via these links at no additional cost to you.

As a policy, the Company will only affiliate with products, services, consultants or experts that we believe will provide value to our customers and followers.

You recognize that it remains your personal responsibility to investigate whether any affiliate offers are right for you and will benefit you. You will not rely on any recommendation, reference, or information provided by the Company but will instead conduct your own investigation and will rely upon your investigation to decide whether to purchase the affiliate product or service.

Teaching Trailblazers

Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers 

Here is a question I get all the time from my listeners: "Help, my kids are out of control! What can I do?"

Now this is something every early childhood teacher has had to deal with in their career. 

It's no secret that young children are not all angels. It's normal, they're kids, and they don't have as much impulse control as we do. 

Plus, they're at that age when they're starting to feel like their own person and want to express themselves.

So, how do you make them behave in the classroom?

Well, what if teaching kids to behave wasn't about controlling their behavior, but instead about teaching them the skills they need to express their feelings and emotions?

This is exactly what I discuss in today's episode of Elevating Early Childhood, so, if this sounds like your cup of tea (and I know it does), tune in now!

Key Takeaways:

What is our goal with behavior in the classroom? (00:00)

Sharing one of your emails (02:18)

Behavior charts (03:45)

A story about Kevin (04:37)

Answering my listener's question (09:15)

Another quick story (12:07)

The importance of teaching the right skills (16:20)

Tip #1: Communicate (18:36)

Tip #2: Teach (20:16)

Tip #3: Differentiate (22:57)

What if your administrator mandates the use of a behavior chart? (24:12)

Peer pressure (26:03)

Additional Resources:

- Visit our website to find tons of pre-K teaching resources here.

- Get my book “Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers”.

- Learn more about my exclusive mentorship program, “Teaching Trailblazers”.

- For more info about behavior charts, click here.

- Grab the Making Good Choices Behavior Management printable here.

- Get a copy of Punished by Rewards, by Alfie Kohn here.

- Get a copy of Teach Skills and Break Habits: Growth Mindsets for Better Behavior in the Classroom, by Dan St. Romain here.

Elevating Early Childhood is an early education podcast dedicated to helping Pre-K, Preschool, and Kindergarten teachers teach better, save time, and live more.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

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Onward & Upward!

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Disclaimer:

Pre-K Pages is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. The word “affiliate” means that we may earn a small commission if/when you click on or make purchases via these links at no additional cost to you.

As a policy, the Company will only affiliate with products, services, consultants or experts that we believe will provide value to our customers and followers.

You recognize that it remains your personal responsibility to investigate whether any affiliate offers are right for you and will benefit you. You will not rely on any recommendation, reference, or information provided by the Company but will instead conduct your own investigation and will rely upon your investigation to decide whether to purchase the affiliate product or service.

Teaching Trailblazers

Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers 

Hi everyone, I'm so excited to have you here back again!

Today, I pick up right where I left last week in my riveting discussion with Melissa.

If you're not sure what I'm talking about, let me refresh your memory a bit!

Melissa and I discussed literacy, the importance of understanding the children you're teaching, and how to teach your students the alphabet.

And today, we discuss even more fun stuff and answer your most burning literacy questions, so make sure to tune in!

Key Takeaways:

Do you need a curriculum to teach? (00:00)

What about phonological awareness? (04:32)

Do you have to buy anything to teach your children these skills? (11:24)

Using picture cards can help (17:16)

Invest in an ABC Linking Chart (18:56)

Closing thoughts (24:16)

Additional Resources:

- Visit our website to find tons of pre-K teaching resources here.

- Get my book “Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers”.

- Learn more about my exclusive mentorship program, “Teaching Trailblazers”.

- Get the Ultimate Alphabet Freebie Bundle here.

- Get my free “How to Teach the Alphabet” eBook here.

- Grab my ABC Linking Chart here.

- Want to connect with Melissa? Click here.

Elevating Early Childhood is an early education podcast dedicated to helping Pre-K, Preschool, and Kindergarten teachers teach better, save time, and live more.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

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Onward & Upward!

--

Disclaimer:

Pre-K Pages is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. The word “affiliate” means that we may earn a small commission if/when you click on or make purchases via these links at no additional cost to you.

As a policy, the Company will only affiliate with products, services, consultants or experts that we believe will provide value to our customers and followers.

You recognize that it remains your personal responsibility to investigate whether any affiliate offers are right for you and will benefit you. You will not rely on any recommendation, reference, or information provided by the Company but will instead conduct your own investigation and will rely upon your investigation to decide whether to purchase the affiliate product or service.

Teaching Trailblazers

Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers 

Hey friends, welcome back to a brand new episode of Elevating Early Childhood!

This one is suuuuuper exciting, but before we start, let me ask you a question!

Has anyone ever said to you: "Oh, you teach preschool, it must be so much fun to play all day!"?

Pretty frustrating, right? 

Many people think teaching early childhood is a walk in the park, even when you and I know the truth: It isn't!

Our job needs time, dedication, and a real love for children and literacy. After all, not anyone can teach a small child the alphabet...

Which brings me to today's subject: This week’s guest, the brilliant Melissa Leach (of Leach Literacy Training), who is here to discuss the science behind teaching letters, letter names, and sounds to preschool-aged children.

Are you ready?

Grab yourself a nice hot chocolate (or a spiced cider, 'tis the season after all), have a seat in your favorite chair, and tune in!

Key Takeaways:

Is teaching preschool really easy? (00:00)

Letter before letters sounds or vice-versa? (04:45)

Don't jump in too quickly (08:41)

The importance of not making assumptions (13:53)

Why it's important to understand the children you're teaching (14:27)

How to get your children excited about learning letters (16:36)

Additional Resources:

- Visit our website to find tons of pre-K teaching resources here.

- Get my book “Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers”.

- Learn more about my exclusive mentorship program, “Teaching Trailblazers”.

- Get the Ultimate Alphabet Freebie Bundle here.

- Get my free “How to Teach the Alphabet” eBook here.

- Want to connect with Melissa? Click here.

Elevating Early Childhood is an early education podcast dedicated to helping Pre-K, Preschool, and Kindergarten teachers teach better, save time, and live more.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

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Onward & Upward!

--

Disclaimer:

Pre-K Pages is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. The word “affiliate” means that we may earn a small commission if/when you click on or make purchases via these links at no additional cost to you.

As a policy, the Company will only affiliate with products, services, consultants or experts that we believe will provide value to our customers and followers.

You recognize that it remains your personal responsibility to investigate whether any affiliate offers are right for you and will benefit you. You will not rely on any recommendation, reference, or information provided by the Company but will instead conduct your own investigation and will rely upon your investigation to decide whether to purchase the affiliate product or service.

Teaching Trailblazers

Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers 

After working with many teachers over the years, I've noticed one thing...

"What is it, Vanessa?" you ask?

Well, the answer is: The lack of flannel boards!

And yes, I can hear you already... "But flannel boards are sooooo old school." 

But let me tell you, they aren't! They can actually be used in very smart ways to teach many standards in your early childhood class!

What do I mean by that?

Tune in to this episode to find out!

Key Takeaways:

Flannel boards in the classroom? (00:00)

Why some teachers don't use flannel boards (01:03)

What is a flannel board? (01:40)

What is the purpose of a flannel board? (04:20)

What standards can you support using a flannel board? (04:58)

How to do a flannel board story with your students (11:47)

My favorite flannel pieces (20:16)

Using a flannel board as an independent learning center (23:20)

Other ways I have used flannel boards in my classrooms (30:16)

Some troubleshooting tips for you (32:15)

Additional Resources:

- Visit our website to find tons of pre-K teaching resources here.

- Get my book “Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers”.

- Learn more about my exclusive mentorship program, “Teaching Trailblazers”.

- For “Little Folk: Goldilocks” flannel figures, click here.

- For “Little Folk: Nursery Rhymes” flannel figures, click here.

- For “Little Folk: Brown Bear” flannel figures, click here.

- For “Little Folk: Hungry Caterpillar” flannel figures, click here.

- Grab your DIY pizza box flannel board here.

Elevating Early Childhood is an early education podcast dedicated to helping Pre-K, Preschool, and Kindergarten teachers teach better, save time, and live more.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

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Onward & Upward!

--

Disclaimer:

Pre-K Pages is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. The word “affiliate” means that we may earn a small commission if/when you click on or make purchases via these links at no additional cost to you.

As a policy, the Company will only affiliate with products, services, consultants or experts that we believe will provide value to our customers and followers.

You recognize that it remains your personal responsibility to investigate whether any affiliate offers are right for you and will benefit you. You will not rely on any recommendation, reference, or information provided by the Company but will instead conduct your own investigation and will rely upon your investigation to decide whether to purchase the affiliate product or service.

Teaching Trailblazers

Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers 

How can you make small group time work for you?

I answer this question in today's episode of Elevating Early Childhood.

When it comes to small group time, many preschool professionals find themselves scratching their heads.

What is it? How does it work? And is it really that important?

Well, let me tell you one thing: If done right, small group time can be highly effective and allow you to target the needs of each student!

So really, what's not to love?

If you're curious about small group time and how you can implement it in your preschool classroom, this episode is for you!

In it, I'll be answering a few questions about small group time, such as how long they should last, how you can manage them, and more!

Are you ready?

Let's dive in!

Key Takeaways:

Make small group time work for you (00:00)

Question #1: What are small groups? (00:57)

Question #2: Why are small groups so important? (01:14)

Question #3: How long should small groups last? (02:34)

Question #4: How many students should you have in each small group? (03:52)

Question #5: How many groups should you have? (04:18)

Question #6: How do you know which children to put in which group? (04:49)

Question #7: Where should you have your small group lessons? (06:58)

Question #8: When should you have small group time? (09:37)

Question #9: How do you manage small groups? (10:24)

Question #10: What types of activities should you do during small groups? (12:38)

Additional Resources:

- Visit our website to find tons of pre-K teaching resources here.

- Get my book “Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers”.

- Learn more about my exclusive mentorship program, “Teaching Trailblazers”.

- For small group activities ideas, click here.

- Grab preschool assessment forms here.

- Click here and use promo code “prekpages” to try ESGI for free for 60 days and save $40 on your first year's subscription!

Elevating Early Childhood is an early education podcast dedicated to helping Pre-K, Preschool, and Kindergarten teachers teach better, save time, and live more.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

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Onward & Upward!

--

Disclaimer:

Pre-K Pages is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. The word “affiliate” means that we may earn a small commission if/when you click on or make purchases via these links at no additional cost to you.

As a policy, the Company will only affiliate with products, services, consultants or experts that we believe will provide value to our customers and followers.

You recognize that it remains your personal responsibility to investigate whether any affiliate offers are right for you and will benefit you. You will not rely on any recommendation, reference, or information provided by the Company but will instead conduct your own investigation and will rely upon your investigation to decide whether to purchase the affiliate product or service.

Teaching Trailblazers

Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers 

The one thing teachers don't have a lot of besides money is time. There's never enough time in the day to finish everything that needs to be done!

That's why in this episode, I'll be sharing my 10 favorite classroom must-haves; items that have saved me time or made my teacher life easier.

Some of these things I've used for a very long time and I couldn't live without in my classroom, while others may be new to you. 

My purpose isn't to get you to buy a bunch of things. Instead, I'm sharing my perspective about things that I like and have found helpful in the classroom.

That way, you won't have to waste your time and money on stuff you don't need. 

This is going to be a fun episode, so stick around!

Key Takeaways:

#1 - Personal laminator (02:38)

#2 - Spring-loaded scissors (07:49)

#3 - One-touch stapler (10:20)

#4 - HP Instant Ink wireless printer (13:20)

#5 - Nut and bolt drawer organizer (18:58)

#6 - Paper cutter (23:42)

#7 - Creative Station Xyron machine (23:50)

#8 - Sticky pockets (29:29)

#9 - Clear tubs (32:32)

#10 - Iris rainbow cases (35:16)

Additional Resources:

- Visit our website to find tons of pre-K teaching resources here.

- Get my book "Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers".

- Learn more about my exclusive mentorship program, "Teaching Trailblazers".

Links to the supplies mentioned in this episode:

- Scotch Laminator: https://amzn.to/3m2tGxA

- Scotch Laminating Pouches: https://amzn.to/2ZdJ6X8

- Fiskars Adult Spring-Loaded Scissors: https://amzn.to/3B8tzEZ

- One Touch Stapler: https://amzn.to/3Gbw0dW

- HP Printer: https://amzn.to/3GdUbsa

- Xyron Creative Station (9 inch): https://amzn.to/3nkZM7i

- Rainbow Photo Keeper: https://amzn.to/3GcX2kZ

- Sensory Bin Storage Boxes: https://amzn.to/3vE3bSj

- Clear Label Pockets:https://amzn.to/3m7C7rN

- Sit Spots: https://amzn.to/2ZbeaXo

- Wireless doorbell: https://amzn.to/3CaETlp

- Electric whistle: https://amzn.to/2ZcqCpO

Elevating Early Childhood is an early education podcast dedicated to helping Pre-K, Preschool, and Kindergarten teachers teach better, save time, and live more.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

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Onward & Upward!

--

Disclaimer:

Pre-K Pages is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. The word "affiliate" means that we may earn a small commission if/when you click on or make purchases via these links at no additional cost to you.

As a policy, the Company will only affiliate with products, services, consultants or experts that we believe will provide value to our customers and followers.

You recognize that it remains your personal responsibility to investigate whether any affiliate offers are right for you and will benefit you. You will not rely on any recommendation, reference, or information provided by the Company but will instead conduct your own investigation and will rely upon your investigation to decide whether to purchase the affiliate product or service.

Teaching Trailblazers

Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers 

In last week's episode, I talked about how it can be a real challenge to get young children to listen and pay attention during circle time. 

But what if I told you it doesn't have to be that way?

What if there was a recipe for a successful circle time that you could follow?

Wouldn't that be amazing? 

I know, I know - it sounds too good to be true, doesn't it? 

Well, it isn't!

In today's episode of Elevating Early Childhood, a very special guest is joining us to discuss circle time - my good friend Jamie White!

Jamie is known for her highly effective circle time games. And she's a four-time speaker at our annual Soar to Success Summit for early childhood educators.

So, tune in to learn best practices and troubleshooting tips to make your circle time the very best for you and your students!

Key Takeaways:

How to have a successful circle time (00:00)

What to do if your kids are too wiggly to sit (02:06)

One common mistake that preschool teachers make with circle time (04:19)

How to make the most out of your circle time (07:39)

How to get your children to stay focused (12:48)

What to do if your children won't come to circle time or get up and wander (20:52)

The importance of picking the right books to read aloud  (27:21)

Additional Resources:

- Visit our website to find tons of pre-K teaching resources here.

- Visit Jamie’s website here.

- Get my book “Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers”.

- Learn more about my exclusive mentorship program, “Teaching Trailblazers”.

- For some preschool morning meeting ideas, click here.

- Listen to Part 1 of this episode here.

- Click here for preschool circle time song ideas.

- Get your rectangular Editable Picture Schedule Cards here.

- Get square Editable Picture Schedule Cards, click here.

Elevating Early Childhood is an early education podcast dedicated to helping Pre-K, Preschool, and Kindergarten teachers teach better, save time, and live more.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

--

Onward & Upward!

--

Disclaimer:

Pre-K Pages is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. The word “affiliate” means that we may earn a small commission if/when you click on or make purchases via these links at no additional cost to you.

As a policy, the Company will only affiliate with products, services, consultants or experts that we believe will provide value to our customers and followers.

You recognize that it remains your personal responsibility to investigate whether any affiliate offers are right for you and will benefit you. You will not rely on any recommendation, reference, or information provided by the Company but will instead conduct your own investigation and will rely upon your investigation to decide whether to purchase the affiliate product or service.

Teaching Trailblazers

Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers 

In this week's episode of Elevating Early Childhood, I discuss something suuuper important: Circle time!

As you know, circle time is pretty crucial in pre-k, and having a successful and effective one can be difficult.

Why? Simply because most children have short attention spans, which means keeping them focused on circle time can be quite the complex task.

But, I'm here to help! 

Which is why, first things first, I want you to know that, when it comes to circle time, working smarter, not harder, is the solution.

What does that entail, exactly?

Tune in right now to find out!

Key Takeaways:

Why is it difficult to have a successful circle time? (00:00)

Ingredient #1: Understanding young children's attention spans (03:03)

Ingredient #2: Balancing active and passive during circle time (04:24)

Ingredient #3: Have all your materials prepared in advance (06:40)

What to do when your students don't listen during circle time (08:12)

How to fit everything during circle time (09:42)

What to do if your students don't participate (13:44)

Component #1: The picture schedule (17:28)

Component #2: Taking attendance (18:15)

Component #3: Story of the day (20:12)

Component #4: A participatory song (21:29)

Component #5: Review your schedule (21:43)

Additional Resources:

- Visit our website to find tons of pre-K teaching resources here.

- Get my book “Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers”.

- Learn more about my exclusive mentorship program, “Teaching Trailblazers”.

- For some preschool morning meeting ideas, click here.

- For more preschool circle time tips, click here.

- Click here for preschool circle time song ideas.

- Get your rectangular Editable Picture Schedule Cards here.

- Get square Editable Picture Schedule Cards, click here.

Elevating Early Childhood is an early education podcast dedicated to helping Pre-K, Preschool, and Kindergarten teachers teach better, save time, and live more.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

--

Onward & Upward!

--

Disclaimer:

Pre-K Pages is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. The word “affiliate” means that we may earn a small commission if/when you click on or make purchases via these links at no additional cost to you.

As a policy, the Company will only affiliate with products, services, consultants or experts that we believe will provide value to our customers and followers.

You recognize that it remains your personal responsibility to investigate whether any affiliate offers are right for you and will benefit you. You will not rely on any recommendation, reference, or information provided by the Company but will instead conduct your own investigation and will rely upon your investigation to decide whether to purchase the affiliate product or service.

Teaching Trailblazers

Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers 

In this week's episode of Elevating Early Childhood, I discuss something super important: How to write lesson plans!

This is a question I often get from teachers new to working at the preschool level.

So, if you find yourself wondering where to start, or what kind of lesson plan works best for pre-k, don't freak out just yet! I want you to know, you're not alone, and I'm here to help!

And today, I'll be sharing my own lesson plan method with you! 

Not only does this method work for all early childhood professionals, it also doesn't require you to have a curriculum!

Wondering how it works?

Tune in now to find out everything you need to know about my six-step method for writing lesson plans!

So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

Need to write a lesson plan? You came to the right place! (00:00)

Six steps to write your lesson plan (02:52)

What if you don't have any assessments? (06:31)

What skills should you be teaching each week? (07:03)

What units of study should you be focusing on? (07:47)

What books do you read for each unit of study? (08:46)

Where to get a lesson plan template (09:36)

How I get it all done before Friday (10:04)

A surprise for you! (12:04)

Additional Resources:

- Visit our website to find tons of pre-K teaching resources here.

- Get my book “Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers”.

- Learn more about my exclusive mentorship program, “Teaching Trailblazers”.

- Get your Student Assessment Packet here.

- Get your FREE Trailblazer Curriculum Map here.

- More assessment tools for pre-k teachers here.

- Get your FREE Teacher Planner for Preschool here.

- For the editable lesson plan template, click here.

- Get the Pumpkin Lesson Plan Bundle here.

- To check out my premade book lists, click here.

- To buy the Happy Planner Punch, click here.

- To buy the Happy Planner Disks, click here.

- To buy the Rainbow Rolling Cart, click .here

Elevating Early Childhood is an early education podcast dedicated to helping Pre-K, Preschool, and Kindergarten teachers teach better, save time, and live more.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

--

Onward & Upward!

Disclaimer:

Pre-K Pages is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. The word “affiliate” means that we may earn a small commission if/when you click on or make purchases via these links at no additional cost to you.

As a policy, the Company will only affiliate with products, services, consultants or experts that we believe will provide value to our customers and followers.

You recognize that it remains your personal responsibility to investigate whether any affiliate offers are right for you and will benefit you. You will not rely on any recommendation, reference, or information provided by the Company but will instead conduct your own investigation and will rely upon your investigation to decide whether to purchase the affiliate product or service.

Teaching Trailblazers

Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers