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…

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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…

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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…

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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,…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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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If you’re ready to bring an author to your school but aren’t sure how to book an author visit, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a teacher, librarian, or PTA member, this ultimate guide will walk you through every step of booking and promoting an author visit—from choosing the perfect author to making sure the impact lasts long after the visit.

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Introduction: The Magic of Author Visits Bringing an author into your school can ignite a passion for reading and writing among students. But let’s face it—the elephant in the room is… how to fund an author visit. Budget constraints can make this seem like a daunting task. Fear not! With a blend of traditional methods…

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