A few years ago I embarked on a educational journey that would lead me to a new role working with children. Those who have followed this Journey Together FDK blog most likely know and share my passion for learning and the early years. Full Day Kindergarten captured my heart from the very beginning. The amazing professionals I worked alongside each day inspired and uplifted me personally and professionally. I was able to network with those who strive to uphold Ministry expectations and consistently better their own practice through action research and dedication to the field education. Over the ..read more

In 2010, the brand new FDK program in Ontario would change the trajectory of my life! I found my passion, and I uncovered who I am meant to be-a Primary/Junior Teacher! Last week my dream came true! After several years of hard work, some tears and many sacrifices I officially earned my Master of Science in Education at Medaille College! My message to those who are looking at the road ahead and feeling uncertain, take the leap and begin! Take one day, one assignment, one exam at a time and breath! Trust you will get there…and it will be worth it all!! Thank you to my family, friends and colleag ..read more

In April of 2020, I worked alongside my peers at Ryerson University to connect and support the Nibinamik First Nation community located north of Thunderbay. This was truly an an eye opening and rewarding learning experience. I have decided to share their story and the resources found in hope is helps others. Furthermore, I hope their voices are heard and all their dreams for a better future come true. Canada, we can do better. Take a moment to learn more about Finding Our Power Together and hear the voices of the youth below. .https://findingourpowertogether.com https://sway.office.com/Q04Tz ..read more

This blog is inspired by a truly talented educator of the arts, Vicki Kiely. Vicki is dedicated to working with children and creating fun, new and exciting ways to teach and promote learning in young children. With more than 20 years of experience, Vicki “…strives to help children around the globe to discover who they really are, and to grow in confidence and creativity. Her goal is to help children grow through music, singing, movement and storytelling” The modules she has created are geared “…to children aged 2-6 years old, the online classroom will feature classes which focus on nurturing ..read more

Educators all across the globe are looking for ways to virtually engage and teach young children. I have decided as I create, I will share what I have made. Attached you will find a CVC Bingo Game with a wheel to spin built in! Feel free to download, copy and/or print! (Click below to access) https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1E6_e2tMZdBIe4_LvZfvR7gYesKuqKdc0whqhftpHv84/edit?usp=sharing A fun CVC ( _ at) matching game using Nearpod! https://share.nearpod.com/ZtpZqtMLDfb Caroline Thornton ..read more

As a new school year approaches, some children and families have chosen to engage in online learning during these uncertain times. In the months of April, May and June 2020, as school boards, educators, and families searched for ways to support children’s learning and emotional needs through COVID, I decided to create an online virtual classroom that was geared to the learning needs of a little boy I work with. It was created with the understanding that he enjoys technology and he was in need of some structure and routine. With the use of familiar strategies, such as the first/then board and a ..read more

Families are finding the silver-lining and enjoying this time together as a family. Meanwhile, parents are looking for ways to encourage learning, conversation and fun with their child at home. The reality is, parents need ideas! A clear understanding of how learning happens in Full Day Kindergarten. How do educators deliver instruction to students each day to prompt new learning and development? Throughout this blog inspired by our youngest learners, parents can find information on how children learn. Tips and resources are shared to promote fun and engaging learning experiences with family ..read more

As I continue to work toward my Early Childhood Studies (BA) at Ryerson University (https://www.ryerson.ca/programs/undergraduate/early-childhood-studies/), I had an amazing opportunity to take two summer intensive courses on campus. I am currently in my last year, and up to this point all the courses taken have been achieved through distance education. This summer, I had a wonderful opportunity to meet some of my peers and professors. Concept Development in Math, taught by the fabulous Lovisa Fung, was one of the intensive courses I had the privilege of taking. This particular course really a ..read more

Today I had the honour of facilitating a professional development session entitled- Purposeful, Planned, Yet Flexible, Play at the Wee Wonder Conference held by DPCDSB and the CDRCP! #DPWee1dr19 Great day spent with so many dedicated early years educators! An amazing feeling came over me last that night and I felt compelled to write and share; Today Diane Kashin asked the Wee Wonder Conference group where their happy place was as a child? At that moment I couldn’t answer as I was focused on prepping for my my upcoming presentation. Tonight I asked myself that question again, “Where w ..read more

How One Child’s Talent Sparks A Fun Learning Experience for All One child’s talent sparks an interest in art, inquiry and prompts new friendships. A very creative young boy in Grade 3 continuously shocks educators in the classroom with his unique ability to create something out of just about anything. His attention to detail promotes interest among his peers. One day, I approached young E and asked him if he would like to teach an art lesson. He was given full creative control to decide what he would teach and how he would teach his peers. He was also encouraged to put together a small group ..read more