Articles written by Marlene Gundlach

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About me - Marlene Gundlach

I am a mother of two with a degree in Elementary Education. After teaching for 10 years, left the classroom to stay home with my boys. Since then, I have worked as a freelance writer and editor, mainly for textbook companies. I love having the flexibility

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Education > Early Childhood Ed Tips for getting your child ready for kindergarten: 2 of 12
As director of a preschool and a Pre-K teacher, preparing my classes for Kindergarten has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done as an educator. My students came to me in September know very few of their letters, and they are now in April reading sight words. Kindergarten expectations have changed drastically ... More..
Hobbies & Games > Scrapbooking & Paper Crafts The joy of scrapbooking your memories: 3 of 16
I will admit that I began scrapbooking because I loved all of the fun stickers, papers, and tools I found at our small, local scrapbook store. My sister-in-law had started this new hobby and took me shopping with her one afternoon. I was working full-time at the time and thought, "I don't have time for something like this." B... More..
Education > Teachers & Administrators Tips for substitute teaching at the elementary school level: 4 of 11
Schools need good substitutes to keep continuity while teachers are away from their classrooms. When you are hired to sub in a particular district, do as much homework as you can about the schools where you will be subbing. Have maps saved of their locations and a list on your computer of start times as well as dismissal time... More..
Education > Early Childhood Ed How to teach your preschool child the alphabet and reading: 5 of 13
In today's educational system, children are expected to learn things earlier and earlier. I entered the teaching arena as a college student in the late 1980's. When I took my first full-time teaching job in 1992, first graders came to school in the fall to learn their letters. Today, many come in to first grade already readin... More..
Politics, News & Issues > Sports Archives 2008 NBA playoff predictions: What's in store for the Cleveland Cavaliers?: 2 of 5
I am having a difficult time figuring out this Cavs team as they enter the playoffs. Although comforted by their win in the opening game against the Wizards, they still seem to be playing out of sync at times. As the season was winding down, I was convinced they did not belong in the playoffs. They did not enter games with an... More..
Health & Fitness > Childhood Disorders A guide to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children: 2 of 5
There are parents who are afraid of having their child labeled. During my years as an educator, I try and ease these parents' fears any way I can. I assure them that although a "label" may follow their child for many years, it is an important first step in getting them the help they need. If parents suspect that there may be ... More..
Education > Teachers & Administrators Student teacher's success guide: 4 of 8
I was fortunate enough to have an amazing student teaching experience. However, I have heard horror stories from others about their experience and those often get more play than the positive ones. So, what made my experience so special?My teacher was so supportive and was willing to open up her classroom to me. We were partne... More..
Education > Early Childhood Ed How to cope with your child going to preschool for the first time: 9 of 17
When parents would schedule tours at my preschool prior to enrolling their child, I always encouraged them to bring their child along with them. This would allow the child to get an idea of what types of things went on at school. Up to that point, school was just a mystical word to them, probably the carrot dangled in front o... More..
Style & Beauty > Fashion Trends & Styles Tips for shopping with your preteen boy: 2 of 3
My preteen boy has just started to care about what he wears. Heaven help me! It has always been his younger brother who has been the fashionista of the family, but now, JC has an opinion as well. The rage of those in his grade is Abercrombie. We have ventured in to the store a few times, and he owns a few shirts and a sweatsh... More..
Health & Fitness > Pilates & Yoga How to make pilates part of your daily routine: 6 of 8
Pilates has become a part of my daily exercise routine. I enjoy it because it is such a relaxing stretch from head to toe. By the time you have completed a routine, you feel refreshed and will feel muscles that you didn't know you had. It is slow paced and relaxing, yet still is a great way to tone and firm all of your proble... More..