The Magic of Mistakes

Class Dojo is creating a series of animated videos for young students to promote a Growth Mindset.  “The Magic of Mistakes” is the second video to be published, and I think it has a great message for your students.  While we don’t want our students to be afraid of making mistakes, we need to be careful … Read more

Start 2016 with a Growth Mindset

Modeling and teaching my students about the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset has resulted in huge shifts in thinking in my classroom over the past few years.  I have witnessed amazing changes in some of my students who often avoided risks because they were fearful of appearing unintelligent.  Those who have been … Read more

Gifts for the Gifted – Time With You

Our classroom just received a 3D printer through Donors Choose.  It has been amazing, and I am certain that it will be getting a lot of use for our Genius Hour projects.  During this entire week, I have been planning to recommend this printer in my “Gifts for the Gifted” series because it has impressed me … Read more

Your Winter Break Challenge!

Every time we are about to go on a lengthy break, I talk to my students about creative activities they can do if they happen to get bored. One that I usually recommend is to S.C.A.M.P.E.R. a board game.  They all nod in agreement that this is a good idea. Then they all come back … Read more

My List of Lists That Can’t Be Missed

Shockingly, I’m not the only person with the idea of making gift recommendations during this time of year.  I’ve run across a few other great lists in the past few weeks that have helped me to add to my own growing wish list.  Just in case you don’t spend as much time combing the internet for … Read more

Gifts for the Gifted – Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding

As I continue this year’s Gifts for the Gifted series, I should re-iterate a few things.  First of all, these recommendations are for all children – not just those identified as “Gifted and Talented.” Secondly, these gifts will be much more meaningful to their recipients if the gift-giver follows through by enjoying the gift along with the … Read more