by Jaymie Genovese | Jul 13, 2026 | centers, Phonics
If you’re looking for center ideas for first grade, you’re in the right place! After 17 years of teaching, I’ve learned that the best centers aren’t the ones that require hours of prep—they’re the ones students can complete independently...
by Jaymie Genovese | Apr 16, 2026 | End of Year, math
Why Use a Summer Math Packet? You’ve worked hard all year helping your first graders master key math concepts. As summer approaches, it’s natural to start wondering… Will students lose the skills they worked so hard to learn? How can we help prevent the “summer...
by Jaymie Genovese | Oct 20, 2025 | fall, math
As Halloween gets closer, keeping first graders focused can feel like a real trick! Between costumes, candy, and class parties, the excitement level is sky-high. That’s why I love planning Halloween math first grade activities that are both fun and meaningful. These...
by Jaymie Genovese | Oct 14, 2025 | back to school, Social Studies
Are you constantly searching for engaging social studies activities for 1st grade? First graders want to do something with their learning! I’ve always loved the motto: “Busy hands are happy hands!” If you’re looking for meaningful, hands-on ways to teach 1st grade...
by Jaymie Genovese | Jul 1, 2025 | centers, Phonics
Long vowel silent e is always a fun phonics skill to teach in first grade! One little letter at the end of a word—and suddenly cap becomes cape or kit becomes kite! But mastering that “magic e” pattern takes a lot of practice and review. Kids need repeated exposure,...
