August 9 is National Book Lovers Day! We’re celebrating by reading the lesser known books by some of our favorite children’s authors. While you might not find The Giving Tree or Where the Wild Things Are on this list, you’ll still find some treasures by these beloved authors. So grab a cup of tea (iced—it’s summer, after all) and gather your little learners around to celebrate all things book-related.

Technology is an invaluable asset to the classroom and can include multimedia visuals and interactive instruction to enhance learning.

Kids are on computers, and, yes, there is a lot of technology in the classroom today. There also is, however, a lot of paper and pencil work taking place every day in classrooms. Children have to take notes in all subjects; they have to complete assignments in all subjects; and they have to take tests in all subjects. They do all those things through writing. In fact, most of a student’s day is spent using paper and pencil.

On August 1 of every year, we celebrate the creation of the World Wide Web (you know, the internet, the net, the web, the interwebz, Google’s home) and how it allows us to share a plethora of information with one another in mere seconds.

Studies have estimated that 10 to 30 percent of elementary school children struggle with handwriting. Researchers have also found that children struggling to master this foundational skill may avoid writing, and their overall school achievement and self-esteem may suffer.

One of the most exciting parts of being a kid is finding a great book to dive into and explore. It’s important to encourage reading for your child at an early age to properly set them up for comprehension as they grow older. From the ages of 5–7, a child’s comprehension levels are ever-changing, so it’s natural to carefully consider which books are most appropriate for the child to spend time reading.

Summer is well underway, and I hope you’re feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, reenergized, and ready to start thinking about Back to School! As Back to School ideas are rolling through your mind, start thinking about some fresh professional development opportunities!

You’ve heard that handwriting is an important skill for children to be taught. But why? What are the benefits of taking time out of an already-busy schedule for handwriting instruction?