If you’ve ever heard the dreaded student sigh: “I don’t know what to write about,” you’re not alone. Generating ideas for nonfiction writing activities can feel like pulling teeth…for students and teachers. But what if there were a simple, low-prep system that turns idea-hunting into an adventure instead of a roadblock? Enter the Idea Incubator. Inspired by children’s nonfiction author Melissa Stewart…
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Unplugged Coding Activities That Actually Work (Using Picture Books!)
If you’ve ever wanted to introduce coding in your elementary classroom but don’t have tablets, laptops, or a fancy robotics kit…good news! You don’t need them. With the right picture books, you can launch unplugged coding activities that teach sequencing, loops, conditionals, and even variables…all while laughing over stories kids love. And the best part? These…
Read MoreThe Ultimate First 10 Days of School: A Growth-Mindset Picture Book Playbook That Actually Works
It’s that time of year again. Time to start building that classroom community. And we have a first 10 days of school program that will get the year off to the best start possible. Because nothing says “we’ve got this” like fun routines, brave writing, and kids who cheer when it’s read-aloud time. TL;DR Use…
Read MoreHow to Rock Diverse Picture Books for Multimodal Learning Transformation in Your Classroom (and Make Research Fun)
You ever have one of those teaching moments where you think, “Oh, this is going to be great,” and then three minutes later the kids are looking at you like you’ve just asked them to explain quantum physics in interpretive dance? Yep. Been there. It’s not that they aren’t engaged—it’s that the lesson isn’t speaking…
Read MoreAre You Overlooking This 1 Crucial Teaching Tool? Using Picture Books to Teach Culture and Family Heritage
Ever had that “oh no” moment when you realize your social studies unit on “culture” is basically… a food day and a few YouTube videos? (Been there. Ate the cookies. Still felt guilty.) Here’s the truth: teaching cultural awareness and family heritage doesn’t have to be a one-day parade of flags. It can be woven…
Read MoreBoost Literacy With This Ultimate Guide to 5 Great Interactive Reading Techniques
The Science of Story Ever wonder why some read-alouds completely captivate your class while others flop? The secret often lies in interactive reading techniques that invite students to move, respond, and connect on multiple levels. That’s no accident—it’s brain science in action. In this episode of Picture This, Adam and JaNay Brown‑Wood explore how techniques like rhythmic call‑and‑response,…
Read MoreInclusive Picture Books for Elementary Writing Confidence: Teach Belonging and Story Structure Through Story Sparks
When Kids Don’t Feel Like They Fit In Ever notice how a child sits silently in corner A and you can’t tell whether they’re bored, shy, or just feel like the odd squirrel in the group? That’s why this post is packed with inclusive picture books for elementary writing confidence—because when students see themselves in…
Read MoreA Powerful Weapon for Teaching Tough Topics: 4 Picture Books for SEL
Why use picture books for SEL? Because sometimes a 32-page story does more than a 3-week unit. You’ve seen it. That kid with the slumped shoulders, the plastered-on “I’m fine” smile, and the eyes that say otherwise. Maybe there was a meltdown at recess. Or a new sibling. Or they just moved. Or something much…
Read MoreEmpowering Students with Picture Books: 5 Creative Activities That Build Voice and Confidence
Empowerment Starts by Going Beyond the Book What do you get when you mix sensory games, trash instruments, and a library full of imaginary woodland creatures? If you said, ‘Tuesday at Carmen Oliver’s house,’ you’re not wrong—but it’s also a perfect picture of what empowering students with picture books looks like when classrooms use picture…
Read MoreMake Visual Literacy in the Classroom Your Hidden Superpower
In today’s picture books, the illustrations are doing a ton of the heavy lifting. If we’re only reading the words aloud, we’re missing half the story—and half the opportunity to boost student learning. That’s where visual literacy in the classroom becomes your secret superpower.
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