Butterfly Sea in the Classroom: Mindfulness, Nature, and Connection

Butterfly Sea book review

Butterfly Sea by Cynthia Mackey is a quiet, thoughtful picture book that encourages children to slow down and notice the world around them. As two siblings spend time near the water searching for butterflies, their day unfolds through small discoveries, imaginative play, and shared moments of waiting. Soft illustrations and a calm pace make this a lovely read-aloud for young children.

Swirl By Swirl Book Review and Snail Art

Inside: Swirl by Swirl book review and related activities. I had the most fabulous time yesterday teaching in my friend’s class of Grade 1/2 students. Yes! Even though I’m officially retired, I decided to go on our substitute teacher list. I NEVER thought I’d do that but I miss teaching so much I couldn’t NOT do it. Besides, there’s a … Read more

Raccoon Moon: Book Review and Activities

Inside: Book review of Raccoon Moon, related activities, raccoon clip art. I published this post a year ago, but it’s so packed full of raccoon goodness that I’m republishing. We have a family of five raccoons living in our neighbouring trees and I’ve been enchanted with these little guys all summer long. Sometimes the babies sleep on a large oak … Read more

Book Review: First Snow in the Woods

Inside:A book review of First Snow in the Woods. This is one of the most visually beautiful books I think I’ve ever seen. Title: First Snow in the Woods Written by: Carl R. Sams II & Jean Stoick Publishing: Carl R Sams II Photography, 2007 Genre: Realistic Fiction Suitable for Ages: 5 to adult Themes/Topics: Nature, Change, Winter Opening: “The … Read more

What’s Under the SNOW?

Inside: A book review of Under the Snow, plus 12 different links, ideas and downloads. We’ve been doing a winter unit AND it snowed here in sleepy Victoria, so I’m going to feature yet another snow book. Hope you don’t mind, but I forgot how many great ones I have in my collection. Title: Under the Snow Written by: Melissa … Read more