Andrea Knight

Teacher · Learner · Author

Back to School Coloring Pages

The first morning of the first day of school is a special kind of special. There are a lot of feelings happening, so we're always looking for gentle ways to welcome kids into the classroom. Recently, we put together a set of back to school coloring pages for kids who just want to come in and be alone with their new crayons for a bit. I was that kid. Quiet time plus new crayons? Yes, … [Read more...]

Our Class Is a Family

Shannon Olsen's picture book, Our Class Is a Family, is quickly becoming a back-to-school favorite. We're not surprised. It's short. Sweet. And speaks to the idea that a group of people who care about each other is another type of family. And that makes it just right for the first week of school. ACTIVITIES FOR OUR CLASS IS A FAMILY Lesson plans for the first few days of school are pretty … [Read more...]

Bathroom Signs – Visuals for School Restrooms

Why bathroom signs? Because we love our sweet custodians and we want the kids to love them as much as we do. Plus, if you've ever cringed having to walk into a public restroom, you understand the need for everyone being committed to the collective cause. I mean, is it really that hard to remember to flush? And why are there always paper towels on the floor NEAR the trash can, but not … [Read more...]

Summer Picture Books – Our Top Ten (Or So)

It's time to gather all your favorite summer picture books! We love summer. These are long, lazy-ish days for lots of adventures before the sun goes down... and even then, who can resist sitting outside watching fireflies blink on and off? It's just a special time of year. My own kids are now young adults, but when they were little, a perfect summer day meant sleeping in, making chocolate chip … [Read more...]

If You Take a Mouse to School

If You Take a Mouse to School by Laura Numeroff is one of our tried and true back to school read-alouds. The kids love the little mouse and all his silly antics! From the moment he wakes up to the end of the school day, he makes sure he's in the mix. He does a little math. He tries out a science experiment. And he even builds himself a little mouse house in the block corner, complete with clay … [Read more...]

Field Trip Readiness and Reflection Activities

Is field trip readiness a thing? It should be. If you've ever planned one, you know it's a bit of work. And the to-do list can get a little long... call the trip guide, send home permission slips, cross your fingers they come back, collect the money, secure a few chaperones... and then, and then, and then. It's definitely a job for the most organized and patient teacher on your team. But, it's … [Read more...]