Blog Posts

Amanda 5/7/26 Amanda 5/7/26

Growing Words Through Play: 5 Simple Ways to Build Your Child’s Vocabulary at Home

Children learn words best through play, not memorization. In this post, we share five simple, joyful ways to build your child’s vocabulary at home using quick, interactive, and meaningful moments that fit into everyday life.

Linda 4/9/26 Linda 4/9/26

Wet World: A Rainy Day Text Set for Vocabulary & Writing

This rainy day text set blends poetry, picture books, and science to build vocabulary and deepen student writing. Designed for grades K–3, it includes book pairings, interactive read-alouds, word collection systems, and writing extensions—all centered around the theme of rain. Perfect for National Poetry Month or weather units.

Linda 4/8/26 Linda 4/8/26

Word Joy: The Hidden Key to Understanding Test Questions

Spring testing season is here—and while students may understand reading skills like theme or structure, many struggle with the vocabulary used in test questions themselves. Words like convey, contribute, and reveal can become hidden barriers to success. In this Word Joy post, we explore how strengthening academic vocabulary helps students better understand what questions are asking, leading to stronger, more accurate responses on ELA assessments.

Linda 3/22/26 Linda 3/22/26

Savvy Suffixes: A Simple Guide to Teaching Morphology with Confidence

This March Tip of the Month introduces teachers to the foundations of morphology with a focus on suffix instruction. It clarifies key concepts like morphemes, roots, and bases while breaking down the difference between inflectional and derivational suffixes. Educators will learn why suffixes are critical for building vocabulary, how spelling rules connect to suffix use, and how to teach them through explicit, systematic routines. The post also provides practical classroom activities and games to make suffix learning engaging and meaningful for students.

Linda 2/8/26 Linda 2/8/26

Broken Hearts Suffix Game

The Broken Hearts Suffix Game is a low-prep, hands-on literacy activity perfect for word work stations. Students sort puzzle pieces, identify base words, and build new words by matching suffixes—then read and write the completed words for added reinforcement. Built-in challenges and easy variations allow teachers to differentiate for phonics, morphology, syllables, prefixes, or contractions, making this activity flexible, engaging, and highly effective for any early reader.

Amanda 1/21/26 Amanda 1/21/26

A JOYcabulary Reset: Growing Words Through Play at Home

Getting back into routines after winter break can feel overwhelming—for kids and caregivers alike. This JOYcabulary reset encourages families to slow down and grow vocabulary through play at home. From word games and shared reading to turning screen time into language-rich moments, these simple, joyful routines help children build strong word knowledge without pressure. Small moments of play can make a big impact all year long.

Linda 1/15/26 Linda 1/15/26

Your Word Is Your Wand: Reigniting Word Magic in Older Readers

As students grow older, their curiosity about words often fades—taking comprehension, clarity, and confidence with it. In this January 2026 reflection, Linda explores how precise language (“le mot juste”) can rekindle word consciousness in grades 3–8. Through a meaningful classroom moment, the Jenkins Curve, and a playful new routine featuring student “Word Wizards,” this post offers a joyful, low-pressure way to bring the magic of words back into learning—without relying on ineffective Word of the Day practices.

Amanda 11/24/25 Amanda 11/24/25

Secret Gratitude Givers: A Simple Family Game to Encourage Kindness and Gratitude

Bring calm and connection to your holidays with Secret Gratitude Givers — a joyful family game that teaches children to show kindness, gratitude, and appreciation. Perfect for Thanksgiving, vacations, or anytime your family needs a reset.

Amanda 11/5/25 Amanda 11/5/25

Building Vocabulary at Home: Simple Strategies for Growing Word Knowledge

Vocabulary Matters! This post gives you 3 quick tips for learning new words and ways you can build vocabulary text sets at home around topics your family loves (like an upcoming trip to Boston!).

Linda 10/26/25 Linda 10/26/25

Stir Up Some Magic With Powerful Words

Discover creative ways to celebrate words with a Halloween twist! “Magic Words” go beyond manners — they help students of all ages express empathy, describe characters, and connect with deeper themes. Try these classroom activities to turn your vocabulary lessons into something truly magical.