COVID has “locked” us down and changed how we interact with each other; however, I am finding more and more ways to get back in the saddle again – especially where children are concerned. 

In the past, I went TO the classroom to read to the kids. Today — even though we do not live in the same state –the Internet gave me the opportunity to read to Rusty’s kindergarten class (for the first time!)  It was an honor and a joy!

Guess what book I read? When I asked two of my five grandchildren that question — Lexi INSTANTLY knew the answer . . . she enthusiastically said, “The one about the train helping the clown and the toys . . . they had to get to the other side of the mountain . . . I think I can . . . I think I can . . . I think I can . . .” My heart swelled with elation. Lexi remembered it! And so did Haley!

I love the positive messages of determination and kindness in this story.  It was MY father’s favorite childhood book and he read it to us often when my brothers and I were children. He also read it lovingly to MY children. My father (as do I) truly believed THIS is how you TEACH kindness . . . and determination – in the home — and in the classroom.   

The Little Engine That Could is a CLASSIC.  The book was first published in 1930 . . . when my dad was a teenager. It was the beginning of the Great Depression era . Can you imagine the impact this sweet children’s book had on all of the people/families/kids during that extremely difficult decade of financial misery and hardship? Maybe that is why my dad loved it so much.

He was always telling us “We CAN get over the mountain” (symbolizing any obstacle in our lives) and make it to the other side. “I think I can . . . I think I can.”  He would add . . . “and while you are climbing YOUR own personal mountain . . . .  be sure to help others along the way.” My daddy was a very special man – an incredible role model.  He believed that the best way to teach – was to BE THE EXAMPLE. The message in The Little Engine That Could is universal – it really does carry from generation to generation – never losing its wisdom. 　

I continued my father’s tradition while I was teaching at Meeting House Cooperative Preschool in Alexandria, Virginia and shared his favorite book with my students.  This particular copy of The Little Engine That Could was given to me by an adorable set of twins: Patrick and Jackson and their mother Maren Hoover when her boys were in my class. I TREASURE it — so do my grandchildren!

Today was a good day . . . I figured out how to get over a COVID obstacle and read to a darling group of kindergartners.  I got to see the joy on their faces . . . and I’m still smiling! Volunteer in your neighborhood school — online or in-person. I highly recommend it! #silverlinings