There are teachers and coaches. And then there are Tools teachers and Tools coaches. Through our endorsement process, we are thrilled to recognize excellence in Tools teaching practices. Get ready to meet some highly skilled Tools practitioners.
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love the Play Planning and Message of the Day activities. It is an age-appropriate way to get phonics into the school day!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has taught cooperation, turn-taking and sharing.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
On our team, it has allowed us to plan similar events and activities in our classrooms, it allows for great hands-on experiences and field trips
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools is play-based and builds in great lessons within play.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The biggest "aha" for me was when I could see the kids working together to identify letter sounds when writing their Play Plans at the end of the year.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would like them to know that this is a great play-based curriculum. Administrators should encourage teacher to invest fully in all aspects of the program for it to be effective.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love the built-in scaffolding for students at all levels, especially those who need more support or a challenge. I also love the integration and building upon all of the activities as the school year progresses. Tools is so adaptable, and has worked beautifully in my dual-language classroom.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students' self-regulation has greatly improved since the beginning of the year, and I notice them looking out for one another and supporting each other.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has helped me grow as an educator, especially in learning how to scaffold and support each child exactly where they are at. It has also helped me by providing structure in the schedule and activities, while allowing for creativity in prop-making and more.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools classrooms are truly child-driven. Children's work is everywhere and children are integral to making the play themes come to life. I love the language and socialization that occurs as children take on different roles and move from center to center, interacting with their peers. While Tools embraces imaginative play, it also provides a structured way to introduce literacy and math skills.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
As a dual language teacher of many years, I have focused on language development through social interactions, songs, stories and vocabulary development. Through Scaffolded Writing and the Play Planning process, I have seen tremendous growth in my students' ability to express their thoughts through writing. It has been especially powerful to see students write their Play Plans in both languages because they truly understand the process.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools is the best preschool curriculum I have ever used. I love it!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
One of my favorite parts of Tools is how it focuses on teaching self-regulation, helping children develop skills such as attention, impulse control, planning and working memory through structured play and classroom activities.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Since implementing Tools, we have observed growth in children's self-regulation, independence, and engagement in learning. Students are increasingly able to follow classroom routines, sustain attention during activities, and work collaboratively with peers. We have also noticed that students are more confident in expressing their ideas and taking ownership of their learning. Overall, the program has contributed to a more positive classroom culture and has supported children's academic readiness.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has helped me become more intentional in how I support children's learning and development. It has changed the way I view play, self-regulation and language as essential components of academic success. I am more purposeful in planning activities, scaffolding student interactions and creating opportunities for children to take ownership of their learning. As a result, I feel better equipped to meet the diverse needs of my students and to foster a classroom environment that promotes independence, collaboration and engagement.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is different from a traditional early childhood classroom because it intentionally integrates self-regulation, executive functioning and purposeful play into daily instruction. Children are encouraged to plan their play, work with partners, and engage in meaningful conversations that strengthen their language and literacy development. Through scaffolded instruction, I provide support that helps students become more independent and confident learners. This approach creates a classroom environment where children are engaged, motivated and empowered to take ownership of their learning.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One story that stands out is a student who struggled with staying focused, following directions and working cooperatively with peers at the beginning of the school year. Through the consistent use of Tools activities and strategies, I began to see significant growth in the student's ability to manage emotions, stay engaged during learning activities and collaborate with classmates. Over time, the student became more confident, independent, and successful in both academic and social situations.The experience strengthened my commitment to creating a classroom environment where all students have opportunities to thrive.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would encourage them to embrace the process and trust the framework. Tools provides meaningful strategies that support children's self-regulation, independence and academic growth through purposeful play and interactive learning. While implementation takes commitment and consistency, the positive impact on student engagement, social-emotional development and overall learning is well worth the investment.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite aspect of Tools is Make-Believe Play with the various themes!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Both my daughters went through the Tools program and it was amazing to see the growth for them, both academically and socially.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Our entire preschool team is endorsed now, which is easier now if one of us needs to step in for a colleague. We can pick up right where they left off, a seamless process.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Children are developing many skills at once: letter, number, color recognition, being able to complete a thought and use voice-to-line match in writing.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I am a Preschool Special Education Teacher in an ABA setting. Using Tools to differentiate instruction has been a fascinating journey!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Learning from play while developing self-regulation strategies is what makes Tools so cool!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite aspect of Tools is its strong emphasis on fostering children's self-regulation skills through purposeful, play-based learning experiences.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools supports students school readiness by fostering the development of self-regulation, language skills and social interaction through meaningful learning activities.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has positively influenced my teaching practice and the work of educators in our program by providing a structured framework for intentional, play-based instruction. It has strengthened our focus on supporting children’s self-regulation, language development and social-emotional growth. As a result, educators are more purposeful in their planning and better equipped to create engaging learning environments that support student success.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The Tools classroom stands out because it promotes intentional teaching and provides a supportive environment where students can learn, practice and develop according to their individual needs and abilities.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I had a student who struggled with self-regulation and communication, which often resulted in disruptive behavior in the classroom. The Tools curriculum provided a clear framework that allowed me to intentionally support the student through structured play and purposeful opportunities for expression. These strategies helped the student build stronger self-regulation and communication skills over time. As a result, the student is now more engaged, confident and thriving within the classroom environment.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I highly recommend Tools of the Mind for its purposeful and intentional approach to instruction through play-based learning and self-regulation strategies. This program places the needs of children at the center of instruction and supports their overall growth, engagement and long-term success.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools program is how educators can support self-regulation through rich classroom experiences and targeted scaffolding.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Students are learning how to self-regulate and engage with peers successfully through the thematic play and embedded self-regulation activities and routines. As a result, they are engaging in more mature play.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Integrating strategies that support self-regulation is now embedded into our classroom practice. As a result, teachers are more thoughtful about how self-regulation impacts learning.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The intentional use of strategies that support self-regulation are embedded into all classroom routines.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has such a focus on peer interactions. Seeing students speak to each other within their role play and in discussion throughout routines is a pleasure to witness. Seeing children quickly invite another to Share the News and encourage each other without any teacher prompting shows how simple routines can go a long way to building meaningful relationships.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Go into any new learning with an open mind and embrace change willingly.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing is the pretend play. I love working with the children to come up with prop ideas—they can turn a cardboard box into anything they imagine.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Seeing children's growth from the beginning of the year in the 3-year-old program to the end of the year in the 4-year-old program is remarkable. In Play Planning, what begins as a scribble or gesture pointing to a play center ends with a picture depicting what the child wants to do and a message using estimated spelling.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I've received many comments from both parents and kindergarten teachers about how impressed they are by the children who have experienced Tools PreK—not only how well the children conduct themselves in school, but how far advanced they are academically.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Our Tools classrooms are engaged and actively expanding their knowledge and patience. The kids feel apart of the planning, playing, and learning. They confidently interact with teachers and students.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
We were already doing lots of dramatic play before. Tools has reignited my passion for this and my love of teaching.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools effectively teaches self regulation, literacy, math, and science all while the children are playing. It’s effortlessly allows the teachers to scaffold each individual.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite part of Tools is how it teaches self-regulation through play while encouraging children to become independent, collaborative learners.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has connected real-life scenarios to play scenarios.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
As educators we have become more thoughtful in our planning, scaffolding and observation of children's learning. We've also seen students become more independent, engaged and confident learners, which has strengthened our belief in the importance of play-based instruction.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is different because children learn through purposeful play, collaboration and self-regulation activities. Students take an active role in their learning while building both academic and social-emotional skills.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Through consistent use of Play Planning, partner activities, and self-regulation strategies, students became more confident, stayed engaged for longer periods, and were able to participate more successfully with peers. Seeing that growth reinforced the value of the Tools approach in supporting both academic and social-emotional development.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools is a strong investment in early childhood education because it intentionally builds self-regulation, independence and social-emotional skills alongside academics.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I really like the self-regulation aspect of the program. Tools approaches this skill as something that can be taught and strengthened.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The children exhibit smoother transitions, remind each other of the area they should be in and what roles they chose.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has made me become more aware of how to scaffold the children in their learning.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The children make their own Play Plans and choose their roles for make-believe play, which in turn makes their play purposeful.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One day a child wanted to go to a specific center. There were no play clips available for that center. I asked the child what should she do. She immediately said "I will pick another area and tomorrow I can go to the area I really want."
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
If you want your children to make decisions, strengthen executive functions and become more independent, then choose this program.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite aspect of Tools is that it recognizes young children learn best through purposeful play. Rather than asking children to simply memorize skills, Tools teaches them how to think, plan, collaborate and solve problems.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
In our school district, Tools has had a meaningful impact on preschool students. We have seen children become more independent, engaged and confident learners. Students demonstrate stronger self-regulation, are better able to solve problems with peers and participate in rich conversations during play. The intentional planning embedded within the program has strengthened oral language development while creating authentic opportunities for literacy and mathematical thinking.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has transformed how our educators think about instruction. Through ongoing professional development, coaching and collaborative planning, our preschool staff has developed a deeper understanding of executive functioning and the critical role purposeful play has in child development. As district leaders, we have also seen the value of instructional coaching. Our preschool instructional coach works alongside teachers to refine practices, reflect on instruction and ensure fidelity of implementation. This collaborative approach has built teacher confidence and strengthened consistency across classrooms.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is intentionally designed around purposeful play, student ownership and meaningful interactions. Students plan their play, assume meaningful roles, communicate with peers and use language to solve problems together. The classroom feels joyful, collaborative, and engaging because children are learning through experiences that are meaningful to them.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One of the most rewarding experiences has been observing classrooms over time and watching children who initially struggled with self-regulation become confident, independent learners. During one classroom visit, I watched a student who had previously found it difficult to participate appropriately during center time carefully create a Play Plan, assume a role in the dramatic play center, negotiate responsibilities with classmates and remain engaged for an extended period. Rather than relying on teacher prompts, the child used the strategies learned through Tools to solve problems independently.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
The program is about much more than preschool academics. It develops the executive functioning skills children need to become successful learners, thoughtful problem-solvers and collaborative classmates. It empowers teachers to become facilitators of learning while creating joyful classrooms where children are engaged, challenged and excited to learn. For districts like ours, where many students benefit from strong social-emotional and language development before entering kindergarten, Tools has provided a strong foundation that supports both immediate success and long-term achievement.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
As an instructional coach, I value how Tools aligns strong instructional practices with the development of self-regulation and executive functioning. It provides teachers with effective strategies to engage students in purposeful, collaborative learning while supporting both academic and social-emotional growth.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has helped children develop stronger self-regulation, independence and collaboration skills. We have seen increased student engagement, improved peer interactions and greater confidence in learning tasks. The program's focus on executive function and purposeful play has supported both academic and social-emotional growth across classrooms.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has helped educators become more intentional in supporting self-regulation, executive functioning and student-centered learning. It has strengthened instructional practices, fostered meaningful professional collaboration and provided a shared framework for creating engaging, developmentally appropriate learning environments.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom stands out because it combines academic learning with the intentional development of self-regulation and executive functioning. Through purposeful play, peer collaboration and student-centered activities, children build the skills needed to become independent, engaged and confident learners.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
As an instructional coach, I observed a child who struggled with attention and peer interactions become increasingly independent and confident through Tools routines. By participating in structured partner activities and self-regulation practices, the child learned to stay engaged, work collaboratively and take pride in learning. Seeing that growth highlighted the lasting impact of Tools on both student development and instructional practice.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would tell them that Tools is a worthwhile investment in both students and educators. It provides a research-based framework that supports academic achievement, self-regulation and social-emotional growth. With strong implementation and coaching support, it can transform classroom practices and create more engaged, independent learners.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite aspect of Tools is how it promotes self-regulation, purposeful play and language development while engaging children in meaningful learning experiences.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has helped students develop stronger self-regulation, social skills and problem-solving abilities. Children become more engaged in learning, collaborate with peers and demonstrate increased independence during classroom activities.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has strengthened instructional practices by providing clear strategies to support self-regulation and purposeful play in the context of structured learning. It has also encouraged collaboration among educators.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom focuses on purposeful play, self-regulation and student-centered learning, where children actively plan, collaborate and develop cognitive and social skills through structured activities.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One meaningful experience was observing how children become more independent through planning their play. With the support of Tools strategies, chileren are able to organize their ideas, collaborate with peers and stay engaged in purposeful learning for long periods of time.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would strongly recommend it. Tools provides effective strategies that support self-regulation, purposeful play and a strong academic foundation while creating a structured and engaging classroom environment.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love how Tools incorporates self-regulation development into activities for the students.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has really improved children's writing skills.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I love the Tools program and how easy it is to access guidance through the Tools Portal.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The classroom is more student-led rather than teacher-led.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I loved seeing a student I taught for two years begin as a child who could barely draw a picture of a person and progress to writing a whole Play Plan with a sentence about what he was going to play.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would say that Tools is a wonderful curriculum for preschool children to truly learn through play and through activities where they are also having fun because of how engaged they are.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love everything about Tools! I especially love that social-emotional skills, executive functioning skills and play-based learning are all combined into one curriculum. Also, that Vygotsky's theoretical framework is used as a foundation for the curriculum.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has had a tremendous impact on our children at our school. All of our students in our preschool program have disabilites. However, most of our children enter kindergarten with much stronger academic and social skills than their typically-developing peers.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has a meaningful impact on both my own practice and our para educators in our district. One of the biggest shifts is how we intentionally support children's self-regulation, language development and learning through play. For me personally, Tools has strengthened how I intentionally scaffold instruction for my students.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The way Tools is designed has helped our students with disabilities develop more independence, better engagement in learning and stamina. Also, it is different than most other curricula which are scripted and not flexible, allowing true differentiation for students and autonomy for teachers. A Tools classroom is an intentional, language-rich, inclusive and joyful environment to be in!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools gave me the foundation needed to provide appropriate play-based learning and has changed the way I design instruction for my students.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Do it! It is hands-down the best early childhood curriculum I have used in my 17 years of teaching preschool.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite part of Tools is the in-depth training and ongoing support we receive. It helped me to feel empowered and capable as a novice educator! It gave me the confidence, skills and support I needed to show up daily to make a meaningful impact in my classroom.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Using Play Plans has helped my students grow from just choosing activities to learning how to make a plan and truly stick with it, which helps with building their self-regulation. My students have become more independent and confident problem-solvers! They are more willing to talk through conflicts and problem-solve together with their peers before looking for an adult to step in. Tools has given my students a strong foundation to grow into confident, curious and cooperative learners!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
While we all know how amazing Tools is for helping children build self-regulation, it has also had a huge impact on me as an educator. Tools helped me reshape my own expectations to truly match what my students are capable of learning and doing. Because of this, I feel so much more connected to my multi-age students and better equipped to create tailored, differentiated instruction that meets everyone's unique needs!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I think the focus on teaching young children self-regulation is a major factor in what makes a Tools classroom different. Through Tools, young children learn to manage themselves using visual reminders, self-talk and buddy pairs. Tools also equips teachers with the skills and confidence to scaffold and support students in their growth, learning and play.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One story that stays close to my heart involves a student with learning needs who usually struggles to participate in large group activities. Today, this student joined our whole-group Freeze Game! Several peers noticed right away, offering big smiles and thumbs-up. I truly believe this student felt safe and confident enough to join us because of the user-friendly visuals from Tools. Beyond supporting self-regulation, these elements build real self-esteem, giving children the confidence they need to follow routines and join in the fun!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
If you are thinking about bringing Tools to your school or classroom, my best advice is to dive in with an open mind! It can feel scary to step out of your comfort zone, but I promise you it is so worth it! You will see incredible growth in your studentsand in your team. Also remember that you are never alone on this journey. The community, training and ongoing support are phenomenal, so don't be afraid to ask for help along the way!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love all parts of the Make-believe Play block. I appreciate the belief in play and the concrete structures that support students as they move through the levels of play. I especially like the thematic structure of the centers and the ability to dive deep into a topic by layering on meaning in each center. The ability to develop vocabulary, oral language and key concepts in play is so powerful and kids LOVE this block!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has given us shared language around high-quality instruction, self-regulation and developmentally appropriate practice.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has transformed our classrooms across our district. It has given us common language for what PreK classrooms should look like and has helped us to prioritize play.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools classrooms are focused on self-regulation and peer support and value play as a tool for powerful learning.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Before using Tools, my classroom was much more teacher-directed and rigid. Through my time working with Tools, I have learned specific strategies for structured productive student talk and how to support teachers in providing students with more choice in the classroom.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would tell them that Tools is a very thoughtful, comprehensive curriculum and that buy-in and trusting the process are important. I'd emphasize the importance of learning one thing at a time and everything will fall into place.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools is that it gives us strategies to support self-regulation in every learning activity.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Because they do Play Planning every day, many PreK students go into kindergarten already sounding out words and even writing at a first-grade level.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools PreK students transitioning to kindergarten have gained the ability to adapt and be aware of their emotions.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools of the Mind makes the classroom different because we create an authentic learning environment by turning the classroom into a grocery store, hospitals , vet clinic, etc. Kids are able to have hands-on play, create and play the role of a doctor, solve problems and implement new ideas.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I have learned different strategies from Tools to help children become confident by scaffolding the Zone of proximal development, mostly providing variety of learning experiences to help them with their emotions, the key clue for a successful child.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I will strongly recommend Tools of the Mind to my peers. My advice will be that anyone implementing this curriculum needs to be an open-minded person willing to challenge and adapt to new ideas, you will have to be flexible, creative and patient. If you put all of these skills together you can implement this curriculum easily.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The curriculum provides a strong developmental foundation for both children and educators, offering meaningful practices that support children's growth while empowering teachers in their instruction. I love seeing children engage in rich conversations, plan their play, collaborate with peers and take ownership of their learning. The joy, creativity and meaningful learning that emerge through play make Tools truly transformative.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has had a profound impact on the children in my classrooms. Through purposeful play, intentional social interactions, and engaging literacy experiences, my students develop strong self-regulation, language, literacy and problem-solving skills that support their success in school and beyond. One of the most noticeable impacts is the growth I see in my students’ independence and confidence. Throughout the year, my students learned to take ownership of their learning, work collaboratively with peers, express their ideas and persist through challenges.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has had a meaningful impact on me both as an instructional coach and as a teacher implementing the curriculum. As a teacher, I have grown in my ability to observe children more closely, scaffold learning in the moment and design environments that support independence, collaboration and purposeful engagement. As a Preschool Instructional Coach, Tools has deepened my understanding of early childhood development and reinforced the importance of executive function and intentional, play-based learning.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
What stands out most is the emphasis on self-regulation and executive function. Children are not only learning content, they are also learning how to plan, focus, remember instructions and work with others in increasingly independent ways. Teachers play a critical role in scaffolding these skills through intentional routines, consistent structures, and guided interactions. The classroom environment also feels highly collaborative and purposeful. Children are encouraged to talk, negotiate roles and solve problems together, which builds strong communication skills and a sense of community. Literacy and language are woven throughout the entire day, not treated as separate or isolated subjects. Overall, what makes a Tools classroom unique is the way it blends play, academics and self-regulation into one cohesive, developmentally-grounded approach where children learn how to learn.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Seeing the transformation of children from the beginning of the year to the end of the year is incredible. I remember sharing play plans with parents during conferences and showing them their child's progress in writing. The parents were amazed and proud that their child was able to create such meaningful play plans in both Spanish and English. They were excited to see how much their child had learned and felt confident that they were ready for kindergarten.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would highly recommend Tools to any administrator, coach or teacher. It is a powerful, research-based curriculum that helps children develop not only strong academic skills, but also confidence, independence, self-regulation and a love of learning. The emphasis on purposeful play and meaningful interactions creates joyful classrooms where children are actively engaged and excited to learn. The skills children develop extend far beyond preschool and provide a strong foundation for future success.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love that Tools allows creativity for both the teachers and students! We get to see how creativity can really impact the learning of our students, and it is great to see!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has really brought my colleagues together! We share ideas on how to be creative with math games, centers, literacy and prop-making! It is a very team-building curriculum!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has taken me beyond where I was learning in my college courses. It has really taught me to bring things back to basics and have fun teaching! It has brought me such joy to bring Tools into my classroom!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools allows creativity, mistakes, problem-solving, exploration and the overall important thing in PreK: learning through play!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
As a first-year teacher coming straight out of college, you want everything to be perfect. Especially during your first observations! I was being observed in make believe play block and one of my students splattered paint all over the floor in the art center. My anxiety and perfectionist gene kicked in and I was going to wipe it up so fast. Before I could get to the paper towels and clean it up, my students had already turned it into something in their play scenario. It allowed me to take a breath and allow for messy times to also be learning times!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would say that it brings out the creativity and PreK student in EVERY member of the building. Go for it!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools curriculum is that it meets the needs of all children while helping them develop a wide range of skills. The curriculum provides multiple ways for children to learn and participate, allowing each child to be successful at their own level.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has had a positive impact on the children in my classroom by helping them develop stronger self-regulation, language and social skills. My children have become more independent, work more cooperatively with their peers and use language to solve problems and express their needs.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has helped me become more intentional in supporting children's development through play, language and social interactions. The curriculum has strengthened my ability to scaffold learning, differentiate instruction and meet the diverse needs of all learners. It has also helped me recognize the importance of self-regulation and executive function skills as a foundation for academic success.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is a child-centered environment where play, self-regulation and social-emotional development work together to help children become independent, confident learners.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
This year, I have many different students who are at different levels, and students who speak different languages. It has changed the way I view children's learning by helping me focus not only on academic skills, but also on the development of self-regulation, problem-solving and social-emotional skills. Through Tools, I have become more intentional in my interactions with children, using scaffolding techniques and purposeful language to support their learning and independence.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools has many different components. I would encourage them to learn one aspect at a time and fully commit to the process.While some of the practices may feel different at first, the impact on children's self-regulation, language development, social skills and independence is well worth it. Tools provides a strong framework for meeting the needs of all learners while keeping children actively engaged in meaningful learning experiences.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools is the focus on self-regulation and play.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I feel Tools helps create a structured and predictable schedule for the students. The focus on self-regulation helps the students learn how to control their impulses and focus on the prerequisite skills they need for kindergarten.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I really enjoyed focusing on the purpose of the Tools curriculum activities and getting creative with how I implement them in my special education classroom.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I believe the Tools classroom is different in the way it promotes self-regulation and independence.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Like all curriculums it is how you approach it and promote it in your classroom. I believe an open mind and learning the basics of a curriculum is important in order to implement it in the classroom. Each year you work with Tools, you grow and learn more and more.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite part of the program is Play Planning and Make-believe Play. These activities encourage the children to work together, use their creativity and develop their social skills.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The Tools program has greatly improved our students' ability to self-regulate and become more independent learners.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The Tools program has helped me step back and give children more opportunities to be creative and develop strong peer scaffolding skills, allowing them to learn from one another.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools is different from other programs because changing themes within the classroom centers keep children engaged interested and focused. The variety helps prevent boredom and encourages them to explore and participate with every activity.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has helped me to better support our PreK students by meeting them at their individual ability levels.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would highly recommend this program. They provide extensive guidance, support and materials making it easy to implement and follow throughout the entire school year. The program is well-structured and organized!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Play Planning is my favorite part of the Tools program because it allows us to watch children turn their ideas into action. Through the Play Planning process, children develop important self-regulation and executive functioning skills while also strengthening their language and literacy abilities. It is exciting to see how much learning, creativity and growth take place as children plan, communicate and engage in purposeful play. There is so much meaningful development happening within the Play Planning process!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has allowed for tremendous growth in my class's ability to self-regulate. When students enter kindergarten with strong self-regulation skills, they are better prepared to learn, follow routines, solve problems and interact successfully with their peers and teachers. It is rewarding to see how these skills have developed and how they will support children's future success in school.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has helped us become more intentional in how we support children's self-regulation, executive functioning and social-emotional development. We have gained a deeper understanding of how purposeful play supports learning and how to scaffold children's thinking through meaningful interactions.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is different because it places a strong emphasis on learning through purposeful, mature make-believe play while intentionally developing children's self-regulation and executive functioning skills. Children are active participants in their learning and are encouraged to plan, collaborate, problem-solve and reflect throughout the day.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I had one student who struggled immensely with self-regulation at the beginning of the year. Through consistent participation in various Tools activities, the student gradually developed the ability to engage appropriately, wait for a turn, follow a plan and work collaboratively with peers. It was amazing to watch their transformation and growth throughout the year. Seeing the progress this student made reinforced the importance of intentionally teaching self-regulation skills and showed me how powerful the Tools approach can be in helping children succeed both socially and academically.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would encourage any administrator, coach, or teacher considering Tools to give the program time and fully embrace the process. The strategies and routines may look different from traditional approaches, but the impact on children's self-regulation, executive functioning, social-emotional development and academic readiness is remarkable. I have seen firsthand how children become more independent, engaged and confident learners through purposeful play and intentional teacher support!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Tools is developmentally-appropriate for our young learners, specifically with its dedication to learning through play.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools creates classroom communities that are engaging and child-centered.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has shifted our focus to the importance of self-regulation.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The focus on self-regulation makes Tools stand out from the rest in the best way possible.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
It is worth learning something new! Tools fosters a new approach to teaching that benefits the kids!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite aspects of Tools is the consistency.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The children understand that there is a schedule that we will all follow. They know what’s coming and can grow with the program.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The Tools training is great. We know there is an evidence-based process behind us.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The themes are so engaging. Children know they will be having fun while learning.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools makes everything run smoothly. I know what comes next and so do the children. The plan is very clear.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Trust the process. If you follow the scope and sequence, it will show up in results.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite Tools activity is Graphics Practice.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The children interact and participate in small and large group consistently. They work together, express their likes and dislike. They form relationships. They take time to share there experiences with peers and familiar adults.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools gave me strategies to encourage students to interact with each other in positive ways as they learn and practice readiness skils.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
In a Tools classroom there is so much interaction between peers and between children and familiar adults.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
My students were able to independently follow rules and engage in peer interactions as they build on readiness skills.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Students can show you better than they can tell you, observe how they are learning.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
What I like most about Tools is that it helps children learn through play while teaching important skills like patience, communication and independence. I enjoy seeing children become more confident and engaged in learning.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has had a positive impact on the children by helping them build independence, self-regulation and social skills. I’ve noticed children becoming more confident in communicating with peers, taking turns, problem-solving and staying engaged during activities. The play-based learning approach keeps them excited to learn while still supporting academic growth in areas like language, literacy and early math. It also helps create a classroom environment where children learn how to work together and support one another.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has helped me better understand how children learn through play and develop self-regulation skills. It has encouraged me to be more intentional in how I support children’s social, emotional and academic growth. I’ve also seen it strengthen collaboration among educators, allowing us to work together on strategies that keep children engaged and support their individual needs. Overall, it has helped create a more positive, structured and child-centered learning environment.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
What makes a Tools classroom different is its focus on purposeful play and helping children build independence and self-regulation. It combines academics with social-emotional learning in a way that keeps children engaged and excited to learn.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One story that stands out to me is working with a child who initially struggled with following routines, taking turns and staying engaged during group activities. Through the Tools approach, especially play-based activities and peer interactions, I saw them gradually become more confident and independent. Over time, the child began communicating more with peers, participating in activities and showing better self-regulation. Seeing that growth reminded me how important structured play and intentional support can be, and it strengthened my approach as an educator to focus on encouraging confidence and independence in every child.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would tell them that Tools is worth implementing because it builds both academic and social-emotional skills through purposeful play. It takes consistency from educators, but it leads to stronger independence, engagement and self-regulation in children, which make a big impact long-term.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love how Tools relates to real-life experiences such as grocery shopping, doctor offices and community helpers. It allows children to use their imagination and learn through play about real-life things!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has helped the children learn more vocabulary and understand what people they see in the world actually do!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has allowed me to express my creativity through creating fun props for and with the children! I’m an artist so it was fun to be able to be creative at work!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools provides a great schedule for teachers, especially for teachers that struggle in that area. It’s easy to follow and effective!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would highly suggest it!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite aspect of Tools is its focus on self-regulation.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Since implementing Tools, I have seen tremendous growth in my students' ability to self-regulate, communicate and work collaboratively.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
We are the only classroom in our school that uses Tools, but the kindergarten teacher has seen a big difference in the students that enter her class that come from our program.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is different because learning happens through purposeful play, collaboration and intentional development of self-regulation. Children are active participants in their learning, using planning, role play, language and peer interactions to build academic, social-emotional and executive functioning skills.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One story that stands out is a child in my classroom who struggled with participating in group activities and often became frustrated when routines changed or tasks were challenging. Through the Tools approach, particularly make-believe play and partner activities, I watched this child gradually develop confidence and self-regulation skills.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Trust the process!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I like that we have so much support. I like being able to upload videos for feedback.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students have learned a lot for their level.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools gave me a different perspective on doing my centers.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools is child-friendly.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has helped me let children take the lead.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
At first the program feels different, but in the end you will notice a change in how you approach things.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite Tools activities are Message of the Day and Play Planning.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has supported interactions with peers.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has helped with classroom management.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools is different because it's very child-led.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The students get excited when they are able to write their own names on their Play Plans.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite part of Tools is the themes. They connect to what children already know, which makes play more meaningful and engaging. Starting with family themes, children understand different roles and how people act and communicate, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in their play.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools supports children's self-regulation. I love that students can use mediators and visuals to guide their behavior. For example, the Lip and Ear cards are a simple and effective way for students to understand who is reading and who is listening in Buddy Reading.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has had a huge impact on me and my teaching career. I’ve become more confident in supporting students’ self-regulation in a calm and positive way. For example, when students need a break, a quick Freeze Game or attention focusing song helps them reset and get back on track. I also love how the program encourages more student talk over teacher talk; it’s wonderful to see and hear students take a leading role in their actions and play.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools is different from other curricula because of the student independence it builds. By the end of the year, students are in charge of their own learning. They know how to play the games and take turns. I loved watching my students pretend to be the teacher and play games in our school center during our community theme.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
This year, I welcomed a new student in late spring, and it was amazing to see my class step up. My older students took the lead in helping their new friend with everything: showing them how to complete mystery questions, participate in buddy reading and graphics, listen to stories and play math games. The most special part was watching how naturally they included this student in their make-believe play, inviting them into different roles.They truly took this new friend under their wing, and I loved seeing them become the teachers.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would tell a new teacher starting Tools to really enjoy the experience. Once the learning begins, you’ll start to see incredible growth in your students. By the end of the year, they become so confident and independent that they’ll even start guiding you on what to do!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools is how it helps children develop self-regulation skills through purposeful play. Children learn to control their behavior, follow directions and work cooperatively with their classmates. I also enjoy seeing how Play Planning encourages children to think creatively and express their ideas. The program integrates social, emotional and academic learning in a way that is engaging and meaningful for young children. I have seen children become more independent and confident as they participate in Tools activities.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has had a positive impact on the children in my classroom. I have noticed improvements in their self-regulation, communication and ability to work cooperatively with peers. The program encourages children to be more independent and engaged in their learning through purposeful play and structured activities. I have also seen children become more confident in expressing their ideas and solving problems on their own.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has had a positive impact on our educators by providing a structured approach to supporting children's learning and development. It has helped us focus on building children's self-regulation, language and social-emotional skills through purposeful play. The program encourages teachers to be intentional in their planning and interactions with children. It has also strengthened collaboration among educators as we work together to implement the curriculum effectively and support children's growth.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I believe a Tools classroom is different because it places a strong emphasis on learning through purposeful play and developing self-regulation skills. In my classroom, children create play plans, engage in make-believe play, and participate in activities that encourage them to think, communicate and work together. This approach helps children build academic, social and emotional skills in a meaningful and engaging way.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One way Tools has impacted my work as an educator is by encouraging children to take ownership of their learning. I remember a child who struggled to stay focused during activities but after regularly participating in Play Planning, the child became more engaged and purposeful during center time. The child began following through on plans and staying involved in play for longer periods. Seeing this growth helped me appreciate how Tools supports children's independence and self-regulation.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would encourage an administrator, coach or teacher to consider implementing Tools because it supports children's academic, social and emotional development through purposeful play. I have seen children become more independent, engaged and confident learners. Although it takes commitment and consistency, the positive impact on children's growth makes it worthwhile.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools is how it helps children learn through play while building important self-regulation skills.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has helped children develop stronger language, social-emotional and self-regulation skills. I have seen students become more independent and confident in both play and academic activities.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has helped me be more intentional with how I support children's learning and interactions throughout the day.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is highly interactive, with children actively learning through structured play, peer collaboration and purposeful language activities.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Many of my students are entering school for the first time and often struggle with self-regulation, routines and being away from their families. The structure and consistency of Tools helps create a predictable environment where children feel safe and supported. I've seen students who initially had difficulty participating in classroom activities grow into confident, independent learners who are able to regulate their emotions and thrive in the classroom.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools is a strong program that supports the whole child while helping build a solid foundation for future learning. When used consistently, it provides structure and routines that help children stay engaged and feel successful in the classroom while supporting both their academic and social-emotional development.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite activities in Tools are Graphics Practice and Share the News.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The repetition of concepts has helped students that need consistency. Play Planning and Graphics Practice along with the Sound Map have helped writing.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has brought a consistent approach across classrooms.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Children know the curriculum and expectations regardless of which classroom they are in.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The students can play some of the games independently, rather than relying on a teacher to be present.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
The children are learning through play.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite part of Tools is Scaffolded Writing.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools brings consistency with predictable routines and well-developed play themes.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
In Tools classrooms, students are involved and working together to develop areas for each theme.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
While working on Play Planning, children are able to work independently and to give and receive peer support.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools is the collaboration that is promoted by fostering self-regulation and executive functioning. Students are supporting their peers in discussions and learning activities as well as during play.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I think the biggest impacts that Tools has had on our students is the increase in meeting their reading goals and improving the quality of their writing. Students enjoy writing their own stories and sharing their new learning.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The impact of Tools in my classroom has created a ripple effect. What started as a single classroom pilot has now expanded to several schools in my district, and the incorporation of some of its components has spread to other Kindergarten classrooms using a different curriculum.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools is different from other kindergarten curricula in that it supports students' development outside of a canned approach. Every learning activity is collaborative and engaging, the scope of topics is vast and gives students a global experience, and students have the opportunity to take ownership of their learning while also encouraging their peers.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The scope of the Interactive Read Alouds has allowed me to expand on the cultural diversity of my own students by exploring the global cultures featured in the curriculum. I have received university grants that allowed me to purchase items to support students understanding of those cultures through dramatization. I was invited to that university the next year to give a presentation on how my students have gained a deeper understanding of the world's cultures and of their own place in the world.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Principals of other schools have asked me about the successes and challenges that I have encountered during my time teaching with Tools. My best advice to them was to embrace the program and be prepared to be amazed at what the students will show you they can do!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
There are so many fabulous things about the Tools program. My favorite thing about Tools is how much learning is built into our play themes. Whether it's the pet/vet, restaurant, dentist or grocery store theme, each center opens new doors for children to learn through fingerplays, songs, Share the News topics, making props, learning activities and fun crafts.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has had an incredible impact on our students. All the Tools children really enjoy coming to school and they are so excited to see what centers our rooms have transformed into such as beauty/barber salon, firehouse or beach/boardwalk vacation. All kids in this program meet with success no matter their age or ability. That is what makes this program awesome!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has made a tremendous impact on me and the educators in our program. It is a wonderful thing to be a part of this program and in the end, it is the progress each child has made because of Tools that warms our heart!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools allows children to develop skills in a fun way through make-believe play. Our six play centers teach social/emotional skills, math, language and literacy and many others. Starting with Play Planning, our children learn voice to line match and simple directions to help them slowly build their drawing and writing skills. It's that interaction that helps them build confidence and help them communicate about what they will play and what they want to learn.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I have found that Tools has impacted my work as an educator because activities and strategies such as Play Plans, peer support and scaffolded learning help students stay engaged, manage their behavior and take greater ownership of their learning. One specific student struggled in the beginning of Play Planning due to his behaviors and was always rushing his work just so he could get to the center first. With patience, time and a new sense of confidence, this student now looks forward to Play Planning. He loves telling me his plan and enjoys adding his friends to his picture. He often asks me for help to spell friends' names so he can label their pictures.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
My advice is make the switch. It will be the best decision for your district, your students and your teachers. Tools is the whole package, providing essential skills needed for students' success, self-regulation and attention focusing. Our kindergarten teachers can always tell which children has been through this program!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love the different themes that we use and how we can tailor them to the students' interests and needs.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The Tools curriculum has positively impacted the social interactions, especially through the learning through the play aspect of the curriculum.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The self-regulation and social-emotional learning have improved behaviors and increased dramatic play and learning.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
You will see more advanced and purposeful play in the classroom and fewer challenging behaviors.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has helped me to increase the social skills and self-regulation of all students in my room, including children with IEPs who were fully included.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Spend a whole day visiting a school that has been endorsed and using the curriculum for several years to fully get the impact of a Tools program in real life.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite part of the program is the activities used to promote self-regulation.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The children have become more independent and developed self-regulation skills thanks to the games and activities. These games have allowed them to develop memory skills and vocabulary, understand that games have rules, take turns, etc.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has had a positive impact on my teaching practice by providing intentional strategies to support children's self-regulation, executive functioning, language development and social-emotional skills.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The curriculum's emphasis on self-regulation, language development, social interaction and executive functioning aligns well with many of the goals addressed in students' IEPs.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The curriculum encouraged collaboration between general and special education staff by providing common strategies and language to support student learning. As a special education teacher, I appreciated the opportunities to embed individualized supports within classroom activities rather than relying solely on isolated instruction.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools fosters an inclusive learning environment where all children could engage, participate and develop important school-readiness skills.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love everything about Tools! I especially love that social-emotional skills, executive functioning skills and play-based learning are all combined into one curriculum. Also, that Vygotsky's theoretical framework is used as a foundation for the curriculum.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has had a tremendous impact on our children at Pioneer Elementary School. All of our students in our preschool program have disabilites. However, most of our children enter kindergarten with much stronger academic and social skills than their typically-developing peers.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has a meaningful impact on both my own practice and our para educators in our district. One of the biggest shifts is how we intentionally support children's self-regulation, language development and learning through play. For me personally, Tools has strengthened how I intentionally scaffold instruction for my students.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The way Tools is designed has helped our students with disabilities develop more independence, better engagement in learning and stamina. Also, it is different than most other curricula which are scripted and not flexible, allowing true differentiation for students and autonomy for teachers. A Tools classroom is an intentional, language-rich, inclusive and joyful environment to be in!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools gave me the foundation needed to provide appropriate play-based learning and has changed the way I design instruction for my students.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Do it! It is hands-down the best early childhood curriculum I have used in my 17 years of teaching preschool.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The best part of the program is the intentional make-believe play. This helps students develop self regulation, empathy and working memory. With these tools they can take on roles, actions and scenarios. Students collaborate and teach each other through peer scaffolding. Teachers have flexibility and creativity in planning themes and incorporating math and literacy into make-believe play centers. Preschool is a positive opportunity for students to learn through play!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The daily schedule incorporates all aspects of kindergarten readiness including: opening group, Play Planning, make believe play, and small group math and literacy instruction. The comprehensive daily schedule supports program requirements and rigorous state standards.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Academics are embedded throughout the daily schedule. Learning is fun through play and teachers create a positive classroom culture. Tools has all kinds of scaffolding strategies for teachers. From visual schedules to small-group materials, the curriculum helps teachers support the diverse needs of all learners in their classrooms.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Play is the primary instrument for learning. Children do not just play; they plan their play scenarios, draw blueprints, construct props and choose roles. Instead of traditional worksheets, literacy and math are taught through applied, play-based games. Students are paired with different partners of varying abilities throughout the day which works well in multi-age level classrooms. Students develop internal self-control, emotion management and focus without relying on the teacher. Teachers are empowered with unique teaching practices to build inclusive, regulated classroom cultures.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
As an instructional coach I have the joy of supporting teachers with curriculum, instruction and assessment. Having the opportunity to use Tools daily only strengthens our preschool program. It is truly a gift to help teachers improve instruction whether they are first year or veteran teachers. Curriculum guides instruction and Tools provides opportunities for all teachers to be successful.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Through play, discussion and hands-on learning, students develop language, vocabulary, math and literacy skills while gaining independence and confidence. The curriculum provides teachers and students with the tools and support needed for success.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
What I love most about the Tools program is its focus on play-based learning. Throughout the year, students remain actively engaged through a variety of play themes. Make-believe play not only encourages social interaction but also builds problem-solving skills and supports the development of math and literacy in an enjoyable, meaningful way.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Since implementing the Tools program in my PreK classroom, I've observed significant growth in play-based learning. Students take an active role in shaping and organizing play and show improved self-regulation skills.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
As an educator, I appreciate the practical strategies the program offers for scaffolding student learning within the Zone of Proximal Development. Tools provides well-organized activities and structured components in the daily schedule which streamlines lesson planning and supports intentional instruction.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I think what makes a Tools classroom different is that it incorporates Vygotskian theory into learning. By understanding what children can accomplish independently versus what they can achieve with assistance, teachers can provide support that bridges that gap, promoting student success.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I have witnessed numerous powerful examples of how Tools has positively impacted my students. The Make-Believe Play centers and thoughtfully designed play themes encourage children to use language in ways they might not in other settings. Through imaginative scenarios and collaborative problem-solving, I observe students speaking more freely and engaging socially with their peers. Additionally, the small group activities create a more comfortable and focused learning environment, allowing for greater individualization and tailored support for each child's needs.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Try it! Tools supports both student development and effective teaching practice.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love incorporating themes into centers! I especially love how the emphasis is on child-created props. I don't feel the pressure to buy new toys and manipulatives (with my own money) to put in my classroom!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students are constantly practicing self-regulation, because Tools is focused on it!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
We are all able to grow together and help each other learn ways to scaffold or increase the challenge in some activities!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
While I have only ever implemented the Tools curriculum, I can say that I love how Tools activities are built upon throughout the year!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Four years ago, when I started my journey as a teacher, I felt supported in learning the Tools curriculum through the recurring staff in-service programs and professional development I was able to engage in. Thank you, Tools, for supporting me!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools supports teachers and children!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools is how the program supports the social emotional and self-regulation development of each student in every component.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Make-believe Play has a huge impact on each student, supporting both cognitive and social growth.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
As an educator, I become more intentional about how I speak to the children and model activities.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom feels calmer, more purposeful and joyful.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Implementing Tools has completely changed how I teach and connect with my children. I have seen firsthand how giving children ownership through play and planning helps them become more focused, independent and confident. Instead of constantly managing behavior, I’ve learned to guide and scaffold, letting students take the lead while I support their growth. Watching them use strategies like private speech or buddy work reminds me how capable they truly are. This curriculum has not only improved my students’ self-regulation and social skills but has also made my teaching more intentional, calm and rewarding.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
"I believe Tools would be a great addition. I have seen how it helps kids become more independent, focused and confident. It also makes the classroom calmer and learning more meaningful. "
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I enjoy experiencing the students being able to learn through play.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
It gives the students and classroom structure which is greatly needed at the preschool level.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools shaped me to be a positive and effective educator. I feel more knowledgeable in this program and more confident in my teaching abilities.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
It is student-centered and focuses on play-based learning.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
It helped me to understand students from their point of view which has allowed me to shape my lessons and teaching.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
It is a great choice for PreK because it meets students at their level.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Tools allows the student to build their self-regulation and is tailored to meet each student's learning abilities in every lesson taught.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Across our program, I’ve seen a real shift in the classroom climate. Children are not only more engaged, they’re also working together more thoughtfully and showing greater empathy toward one another. As a coach, it gives me a strong, supportive framework to ensure every child feels valued, confident and ready to grow—both as a learner and as a person.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What I love most is how the program nurtures the whole child. I’ve seen quieter students come out of their shells during Make-Believe Play and more active ones channel their energy in productive ways. The tools and routines give them structure, but also freedom—to explore, to imagine and to grow.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Activities like Play Planning, Buddy Reading and Scaffolded Writing aren’t just about content—they’re about teaching children how to think, focus, collaborate and solve problems. Self-regulation is also built in throughout their entire day. Tools classrooms give students skills they need to be successful, not only in the preschool classroom years but for years to come!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools shifted my understanding as a teacher and now a coach about the benefits of a deep focus on self-regulation. I had a student who came into my classroom not able to focus and sit for more than a minute or two. By the end of the year, the child was not only able to sit and complete a whole activity but also converse with peers.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
The Tools curriculum is a solid, well-rounded curriculum focused on growing the whole child.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools is that it helps me provide individualized instruction that supports every student.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
One of the biggest impacts I have seen is in my students' growth in self-regulation and problem-solving. My students have increased independence, are able to effectively communicate with their peers and are enthusiastic about working together.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has impacted how I provide scaffolds in the classroom. It has deepened my understanding of providing thoughtful and meaningful scaffolds that provide the best learning outcome for each student.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is different as it integrates learning across subjects into all parts of the school day. Students are able to use skills that they have learned in literacy and math and apply those to their Make-Believe Play. Different social-emotional skills that students learn through Story Lab can be applied at lunch and recess. This allows students to have a continuous cycle of learning.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
When I first began using Tools I was shocked at the growth I saw within the first few weeks of Play Planning–my students thrived with one-on-one, uninterrupted scaffolding time and were completely engaged. I am now in my third year of Tools and I am still so impressed with how much my students learn during this activity. I even have parents send me pictures of their children using the Scaffolded Writing process at home.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Trust the process! It may seem different at first but the student learning outcome is worth it in the end.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The structure of the program supports each learner at their developmental level for each activity. All learners can play the same game, yet access the components at their own pace. No child is excluded, no matter what the learning objective!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
As a Tools teacher, I watched my students grow exponentially across the school year. As a coach, I can see this change program-wide. Students gain confidence through play, question their environment through science and learn higher-level comprehension through literacy. At the end of the year, they are different children and active participants in their own learning.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The Tools program provides detailed resources and professional development opportunities to support teachers in their Tools journey. Teachers are encouraged to be responsive to students to determine activity pacing. There are suggested questions and thinking prompts, but teachers have the autonomy to modify based on their class. This has given many of our educators the confidence to trust themselves. This growth allows students to level-up as learners along with the teachers!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom not only looks different, but feels and sounds different. Teachers and students are engaged in the planning and execution of thematic learning. Because of the spectrum of developmental activities, students access skills to support social-emotional growth and critical thinking skills, all through play.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Our last unit of the year was an Airport theme. We simulated the airport from check-in to boarding, flight safety and even the refreshment cart! Months later a parent reached out with gratitude. Her son had been terrified of traveling by plane, but when it came time to go to the airport and board, he was confident and even enjoyed the experience! Many years later, I carry that impactful experience to remind myself and others how powerful and critical play is to young children. Without Tools training and guidance, I would never have been able to develop such a layered play experience for my students.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Dive in and don't look back. Your students, family and staff will reach heights you never dreamed of. With its research-based materials, the students receive developmentally appropriate instruction.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Tools supports and scaffolds educators. They realize that to be effective, you have to be knowledgable and that knowledge grows over time, not just after a training or two when you first begin using a curriculum. There are also so many resources that Tools educators have access to, provided in a variety of formats to meet our different learning styles.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools meets every learner where they are, so every child has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. The growth from the first day of school to the last is astounding for every child.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools is more than just a curriculum of activities to teach skills. It provides educators with a deep understanding of how children learn. This is the magic key because it unlocks the ability to teach across all domains and for all learners.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Having a self-regulation component embedded into every part of the day! When teachers implement the curriculum with fidelity and apply the knowledge shared in workshops, the children have the opportunity to practice regulating their bodies and emotions all day long. By the end of the school year, their growth in self-regulation is amazing!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
When I first started my position as a coach I was asked to help support our self-contained PreK class. I was nervous because I felt the needs in the self-contained classroom were beyond my knowledge and experience. During a visit with a Tools partner I expressed my concerns. I distinctly remember her telling me, "You understand how children learn and how to modify based on each child's Zone of Proximal Development. You can do this!" That was a turning point for me. I am more confident in my ability to support all of our teaching staff.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Give it a full year before passing any judgment. In the beginning, some of the activities and ways of doing things (like transitions!) don't quite make sense. Some parts even seem counter-intuitive (like refraining from giving stickers as rewards). If you stick with it, though, and put what you learn into practice, you will see the difference!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love how children help create play themes, so themes can be different each year depending on the students you have.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
It has really taught students to take turns and be patient.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It helped me to step back and let the students do more of the work rather than myself. It is wonderful to see the students creating the props for the Make-Believe Play centers.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Everyone feels included!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
It has helped me realize that students are so smart and creative even at the young age of three. They have such wonderful ideas!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love Play Planning!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I heard from a counselor that our former students who are in Kindergarten are doing great. They show great strength in self-regulation and know how to turn and talk.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has made me much more interested levels of play and watching play. The higher-level players are able to lead their peers.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Children are so creative with prop making. Even our youngest learners make symbolic play items. This is not something you see in other programs.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I think allowing the children to lead in prop making is important. As teachers, we always like to provide them with ideas, and they have so many of their own. When given materials, they can create amazing things to be shared and used by their peers. That gives them a lot of self-confidence. I love seeing how proud they are!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Do it! The Play Planning alone is an amazing process that works for even the youngest learners. The progress they make in prewriting and writing over the course of a year is so much fun to see. This activity also builds confidence!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Coming soon.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The way this program is designed benefits all types of learners. It not only teaches self-regulation, but also instills the opportunity for students to learn life skills as they play and engage in their roles and actions during Make-Believe Play. It allows the students to use their imagination.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
It has impacted my students very much. They learn how to self-regulate and manage their own emotions. It teaches empathy. It encourages private speech and teaches the students how to problem-solve.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It allows teachers opportunities to collaborate and share thoughts and ideas.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
It allows students of different abilities and ages a chance to learn, grow and be challenged in all facets of the program.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I don't have one story. It's more of how I manage my classroom daily and handle behaviors, how I structure my day and allow students to converse with each other, manage their feelings, regulate their behaviors and problem-solve.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools is definitely an excellent program that combines all areas of development to foster the whole child. It teaches self-regulation, problem-solving, private speech, cooperation, collaboration among peers and so much more.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite aspect of Tools is the way it integrates phonics games, letter activities, songs, chants and repetition into a play-based approach. This method not only makes learning engaging and enjoyable for students, but also helps them develop the foundational skills they need to grow as readers and writers. I especially value how the program encourages children to think about writing in meaningful ways, fostering both confidence and creativity.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has had a significant impact on the children in my classroom. The program fosters growth in multiple areas of development. Children build stronger oral language skills and become more confident in expressing themselves with both peers and adults. Tools emphasizes collaboration and play, which has helped students learn how to share, take turns and engage meaningfully with others. These experiences are not only building self-regulation skills but also creating a classroom culture where students feel valued, capable and eager to learn.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
"Tools has had a meaningful impact on me and the educators in our program by fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous growth. One of the biggest shifts we have experienced is how much more intentionally we work together when planning, preparing and teaching. The program naturally encourages teamwork and creates opportunities for educators to share ideas, align practices and problem-solve collectively. "
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
What makes a Tools classroom different is the way students are empowered to learn in a dynamic and interactive environment. Children are encouraged to talk through their thinking, play through their learning and engage with content in meaningful, hands-on ways throughout the day. Learning in a Tools classroom is not linear—it is active, flexible and responsive to the needs of each child. Students are not passive recipients of information. Instead, they are creators and contributors to their own learning environment. A Tools classroom feels alive—with students engaged, collaborating and taking ownership of their growth in ways that prepare them not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has deeply impacted my work as an educator by reinforcing the value of a student-led approach to learning. One of the most meaningful shifts has been the way I now prioritize consistent student conferences. These regular check-ins not only give me insight into each child’s progress but also empower students to take ownership of their learning and see themselves as capable learners and thinkers. Tools has encouraged me to lean into practices that honor student voice, provide consistent opportunities for reflection and create cohesive learning experiences that build both confidence and academic skills. It has transformed not just how I teach, but how I view the learning process itself.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would highly recommend implementing Tools. In my experience, it is most effective when paired with the full coaching model, as ongoing coaching provides teachers with valuable feedback, guidance and the opportunity to reflect on their practice. Tools is not just a curriculum—it is a comprehensive framework that supports student learning, teacher development and schoolwide growth. With the right supports in place, it has the power to transform classrooms into vibrant, collaborative and intentional learning communities.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I have a lot of favorite things about the Tools program, but what stands out is the development of oral language and vocabulary through the use of action and roles cards during Make-Believe Play. Another thing that stands out is the development of self-regulation through structured activities.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The children are busy learning in a fun way through different Make-Believe Play scenarios with their peers. The parents are very happy with the program because they have seen the changes in their children's self-regulation skills and development.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It gave me the opportunity to differentiate teaching in a way that I scaffold each child based on their Zone of Proximal Development and yet still teach the class as a whole. The outcome is rewarding.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is busy, engaging, interactive and fun. Students are learning in a meaningful way.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
If you are looking for a program where you will see a lasting impact for children, then you should consider Tools. It's all worth it and everyone will benefit from this program.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I enjoy the Magic Tree House themes.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I like that the children grow within their Zone of Proximal Development and all of the curricula supports individual growth.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I have had two very different daughters go through the PreK and K Tools program and have both become great learners.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The way that the children can grow at their own pace but then can work together to celebrate the strides that we make as a class.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I enjoy seeing how visual external mediators are used to increase learning. I like how our child who is deaf reacted to the visuals of the Sound Map and fairy tales.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
The program is well worth the time you'll put into learning it. It can be geared toward inclusion classes and does an amazing job of including all learners.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Coming soon.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools program is its focus on fostering self-regulation in children through a play-based, Vygotskian approach. One of the things I love best about Tools is the themes that provide rich context for children to engage in Make-Believe Play. They enhance learning and self-regulation. I love that children work together to make props and develop the center environment with the teacher.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools creates a positive and inclusive classroom culture where children feel supported and motivated to learn. Teachers tailor their instruction to each child's individual Zone of Proximal Development which is the space where children learn, each child at a different pace with unique strengths and challenges. Teachers scaffold learning and provide appropriate challenges, leading to successful learning experiences for all children.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has significantly impacted educators in my preschool program by helping them better understand and support children's individual learning needs, particularly in self-regulation development. The program has also strengthened relationships between and among teachers, improving communication and collaboration and helping teachers share insights and strategies for supporting children's learning.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
In Tools classrooms, you see children drawing and writing about what they are going to play at the beginning of the Make-Believe Play period. You see children deeply engaged in Make-Believe Play for an extended period of time, talking to each other about what they are going to do together and making props to support the play. You see teachers who facilitate Make-Believe Play to support children's self-regulation development, using strategies such as modeling, scaffolding and creating a rich play environment with props.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One impactful story from Tools involves a child I'll call Sam. When he joined my classroom, Sam was a highly active and impulsive child. He had numerous meltdowns, struggled to wait his turn and had difficulty staying on task during classroom activities. After implementing Tools, especially the self-regulation skills and strategies, I noticed a gradual shift in his behavior. Sam learned how to use self-talk to guide his actions and behavior. He became more mindful and less impulsive in his interactions with peers and teachers.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools empowers educators to create more inclusive, engaging and effective learning environments that support the unique needs of each child, leading to improved academic outcomes, stronger social-emotional skills and a greater love for learning.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Coming soon.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Coming soon.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
One of my favorite things about the Tools program is how all activities offer self- regulation skills to reach a wide range of learners.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has had a tremendous positive impact in all of my classes. I have witnessed progress on all levels impacting positive behavior and readiness to learn, as well as social relationships with fellow peers.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has positively impacted the way we approach early learning in a program in so many ways. It has helped us understand the importance of building self-regulation through daily routines and intentional play.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
In a Tools classroom, children engage in structured play through pretend play and role-playing activities. Children practice important self-regulation skills, such as working memory, problem-solving and emotional regulation, during structured play.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I am more focused on process than product throughout the student's individual or group activities. I have so many learning experiences that have showed me how creative and helpful our learners are to their peers when collaborating on prop-making as well as other activities.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
"I have truly enjoyed implementing Tools in my classroom. I have experienced firsthand the development of early learners' self-regulation, which in turn helps with their academic performance and behavior. "
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Coming soon.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools curriculum is the way that all activities are naturally differentiated to meet the needs of the students. I love that children are able to work at their own pace and learn at a level that meets their individual needs.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has given my students confidence and encouraged them to create lasting relationships with their peers by making play purposeful and engaging.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
As an educator, the Tools curriculum has provided me the opportunity to see growth and progress in all of my students while challenging myself to embrace each day as a new learning opportunity.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The main difference between a Tools classroom and other classes is the fact that it is student-led and focused on the children. Each center is transformed by student-created props and decorations, allowing students to take ownership of their learning environment.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I was introduced to Tools in my first year of teaching. Tools was a different way of teaching than anything I had learned. At first, I was sure it wasn't right for the students in my urban school district. However, three months into using Tools, I was reviewing student Play Plans to complete progress reports. I saw right in front of me how children went from scribbling on paper, to creating lines for their words, to creating meaningful plans for their play. I was amazed at their growth.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Implementing Tools will help teachers make the most of the time spent with their children and will change the way their youngest children learn.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Thematic play themes
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students engage in richer language conversation when role-playing in our thematic play centers. Tools supports them with independent self-regulation behaviors when taking turns during partner games and activities like Share the News and Story Lab Turn and Talks.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Our preschool program is more unified as we are utilizing the same curriculum and thus teachers are able to better support each other through the sharing of materials and ideas for each pretend play theme.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Empowering students to learn and implement self-regulation skills
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The Tools curriculum and teaching practices support me, the lead teacher, in delivering consistent, quality and differentiated instruction to meet the academic and social-emotional learning goals of all my students. Because students and teachers create learning props for our pretend play themes each school year, the children have investment, excitement and pride in their play every day.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
If you value Vygotsky's contributions to understanding and implementing early childhood learning best practices through social interaction and appropriate scaffolding that supports students' in their Zone of Proximal Development, then you will greatly appreciate the approaches and guided learning that embodies a Tools classroom.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Tools has truly brought more joy to my classroom. I love the creativity, background knowledge, literacy and self-regulation skills it has helped me nurture and develop in my students.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Since I started using Tools in my classroom, my students literacy data has increased every year, a great source of pride for not only myself but my students as well.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
After participating in Tools in my classroom, students are better prepared for the rigors of kindergarten. They have increased self-regulation skills, are better able to communicate and share their ideas with others and they retain more academic knowledge than in previous years. The kindergarten teacher even asked me what I was doing differently in my classroom and told me not to change a thing!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools makes teaching fun again. It engages students and teachers in learning the way it should be done, through play.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has helped me achieve the perfect balance of teaching self-regulation skills, social-emotional skills and academics the way children learn best: through play!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Go for it! Go all in, lean into the awkwardness of turning in videos of your teaching and use the feedback to inform your instruction. Your children's data will speak for itself!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Opening Group activities and Make-Believe Play Planning are two of my favorites. I think the flow of the day from small group to large group and then play is a perfect mix for the children. Self-regulation is a very important skill to learn at this age because it will help children throughout their schooling. I like the support that is always there from Tools partners.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has allowed me to help my children grow and learn in an organized, supportive curriculum. The math and language arts activities prepare them for kindergarten. It offers us a variety of activities to choose from and as the year progresses, activities become more challenging.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Our educators are able to choose from a variety of activities to help our children grow and learn. The self-regulation piece is the core of the program and teaches children how to regulate themselves to learn and to be the best person they could be in a classroom.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I like Tools because it incorporates math and reading activities as well self-regulation development. It challenges students as the year progresses. And it allows the teacher to have some flexibility in their instruction.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I have a student who has been in my class for two years. When he came to me at age three, he was dysregulated and talked all the time, but had always been an inquisitive child. He is leaving me to go to kindergarten, knowing beginning and ending letter sounds, counting to 60, knowing how to share and knowing how to regulate his body and talk when he is supposed to. He is an excellent example of how Tools has worked to prepare him for kindergarten!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I think it is an excellent program that offers teachers many learning opportunities.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love how easy it is to keep students engaged! Jack and Annie are awesome.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The students who have Tools are great writers.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Students are so ready for first grade. Most students are on or above grade level when they leave Kindergarten.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I love the cooperative learning and fun activities to help student develop into great learners.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
My administrator always says the students could run the classroom without me. I am very proud of that.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Yes, yes, yes. I have invited other Kindergarten teachers to come observe.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love Play Planning and the Scaffolded Writing process!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students have gained so many self-regulation skills and have become so independent thanks to the Tools curriculum. My students are more than ready to move on to kindergarten after going through our Tools preschool program!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I truly love coming into my classroom and seeing what props and scenarios my students will come up with each day. The Tools curriculum makes school so much fun for my students (and me!) and lets their creativity blossom.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools classrooms allow students to learn from one another and also gives them ownership over their work.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has allowed me to see how much learning can occur during play. Problem-solving skills, self-regulation, math and literacy skills, writing and more happen daily in our classroom. It makes me proud as a Tools teacher to see all of my children reaching their potential!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would 100% recommend using Tools!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Make-Believe Play Planning
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has helped with self-regulation and preparing our children for kindergarten and beyond!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has given the educators plenty of professional development opportunities to learn more and grow our toolboxes for the classroom.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
It takes real-world scenarios that our children experience everyday and puts them in dramatic play themes.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools is the curriculum that made me fall in love with being a preschool teacher.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Make sure to have your staff complete all the professional development sessions that are available!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Coming soon.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I like the way Tools promotes children's creativity and problem-solving skills, and enhances self-regulation.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Play Planning with the Sound Map and Message of the Day have greatly influenced emergent reading in my class.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools reduces lesson planning time since we are given ready to use, evidence-based materials, thus giving us more time with the students to scaffold their learning experience.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The Tools program promotes play-based learning, intentional teaching and self-regulation development to promote children's cognitive, social and emotional development.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools play-based and hands-on learning activities have increased children's participation and motivation. Here is one of many examples. When we did our Community unit, we had a very reserved child taking on the role of a mail carrier. She walked around to the different centers delivering mail to her peers and teachers. If a child refused the mail, she would try to convince them that it was theirs because the mail had their name on it.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
The program is a wonderful tool that makes learning easier and develops the whole child.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Coming soon.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools is how it helps children learn through play while building important self-regulation skills.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has helped children develop stronger language, social-emotional and self-regulation skills. I have seen students become more independent and confident in both play and academic activities.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has helped me be more intentional with how I support children's learning and interactions throughout the day.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is highly interactive, with children actively learning through structured play, peer collaboration and purposeful language activities.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Many of my students are entering school for the first time and often struggle with self-regulation, routines and being away from their families. The structure and consistency of Tools helps create a predictable environment where children feel safe and supported. I've seen students who initially had difficulty participating in classroom activities grow into confident, independent learners who are able to regulate their emotions and thrive in the classroom.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools is a strong program that supports the whole child while helping build a solid foundation for future learning. When used consistently, it provides structure and routines that help children stay engaged and feel successful in the classroom while supporting both their academic and social-emotional development.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Coming soon.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Coming soon.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love how developmentally appropriate this curriculum is for my students!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I have worked in previous districts that utilized various curricula. Teaching with Tools, I have seen such a difference in my students' self-regulation skills.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools makes teaching exciting! It is so wonderful to see how much my students have learned in such a short period of time.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
With Tools, our students are engaged and look forward to each lesson!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools makes teaching exciting! Being a Tools educator allows you to spend the day with students who are engaged and motivated as they learn through play. The scaffolding you provide allows students to learn at their own pace, while providing opportunities for challenges. My students take pride in their work, and it has been wonderful to hear parent testimonials of how much their children are speaking about their Tools games and activities at home!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools is the best choice for our young learners!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing is the support it provides to teachers and the flexibility of options in rolling out the activities.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I see the self-regulation difference from the beginning of the year where there are many tantrums or outbursts compared to now where they have learned to lean on other peers for support or communicate. Turn-taking has improved a lot as well as listening skills and attention duration.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I enjoy the themes within Tools and get excited to roll out a new theme. I think it helps that we all start on the same themes in my district so that we can work together and support one another.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I was a student teacher in a classroom using a different curriculum and saw how much the teacher had to create. In a Tools classroom, teachers have the activities that are already aligned to the state standards. It targets skills that are developmentally appropriate for PreK and offers ways to gradually increase the challenge level. There are common mediators used across activities, so students become familiar with them.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I became a Tools teacher in my third year of teaching. The first year in a new district and a new grade with an unfamiliar curriculum can be overwhelming, but I felt very supported in learning and implementing all of the Tools activities. If I had questions I could refer to iScaffold, watch videos, reread the manual and ask my coach.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would let them know that there is a network of support available to them. Additionally, it is easy for teachers to learn the curriculum. Tools is flexible based on each school's schedule and what the schedule for PreK looks like.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Self-regulation development
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students' self-regulation has increased and so has their independence.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I have a clearer understanding of how to intentionally support the development of self-regulation skills, such as attention shifting and working memory, through structured play and Play Planning activities.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Learning through play! Math and literacy skill development is embedded in the play themes.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Working with children at their developmental level, the Zone of Proximal Development.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I love the literacy component!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
2024 endorsements
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love that students are allowed to have autonomy. Students are given choices about what center they will go to, what they will do, and who they will be.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students show a greater level of self-regulation. Once they understand they have choices, opportunities for movement, creating questions, and working with varied partners, they focus on the learning.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has allowed me to be creative in the classroom. Make-Believe Play and Make-Believe Play Practice are my favorite times of the day. I love seeing students grow their oral language skills while playing with their peers, and learning new skills along the way.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools classrooms offer opportunities for scaffolding at every level. Every child can grow and learn, and be met at their level.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
It has opened my mind up to the power of play. My students are able to practice their oral language, writing, math, and self-regulation every single day during their Make-Believe Play block. This time is integral to their growth, because it allows them to use their skills in a practical and purposeful way.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools is an all-inclusive curriculum. It offers lessons in reading, math, science, and self-regulation. It offers foundational skills, a solid professional development program, and ways to scaffold at all instructional levels.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love Make-Believe Play Planning!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
When teachers implement the Tools curriculum with its recommended, age-appropriate scaffolds, it supports students' educational and developmental needs.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It assists with developing self-regulation in students.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
It focuses on simple games and activities which become more challenging as children are developmentally ready.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would say that Tools is a solid early childhood curriculum which focuses on learning through play while meeting students' learning and self-regulation needs.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love how play-centered the curriculum is and how much self-regulation it provides my students.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students are more engaged and their love of learning has improved immensely.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I am more satisfied with my job and my student’s behavior is better and more under control.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is a fun and exciting place where play is at the center of it all. Students are more excited to learn and work together.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I’ve seen my students' growth improve each year. The students are learning more than ever and are motivated to achieve more.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would highly recommend implementing Tools to any teacher looking for an engaging and exciting curriculum.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The self-regulation development.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The Tools program has benefited my students immensely, helping them develop roles within the Make-Believe Play block.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The Tools program has allowed me to learn different techniques on how to scaffold as well as descaffold for my students to achieve their goals.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
It allows the students to learn through play.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The Tools curriculum allowed me to reach my students' in their Zone of Proximal Development. My students have increased their levels in their Make-Believe Play Planning and developed their Make-Believe Play skills.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would 100% recommend implementing Tools in your district.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love that all the Tools activities focus on self-regulation. It is such an important part of teaching young students and I love that it is so easily intertwined in what we are doing every day.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has made a huge impact on the students in our district. Our students are going to Kindergarten prepared because of the work we do in preschool every day. It also provides many ways to differentiate through scaffolds so that every student in our classroom is successful in preschool and beyond.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools creates a sense of community among our program. We are always working together to share ideas with each other whether it's related to the next theme, trying out a new activity, or differentiating for each student in our program. We work together to ensure we are all successful!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I think one thing that makes a Tools classroom stand out among other curriculums are the Make-Believe Play Plans. It is amazing to see how far students come from the beginning of the year. They begin with just a simple drawing of themselves and by June they are able to write and sound out many letters in a word all on their own.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I have only used Tools since becoming an educator 5 years ago. Since the beginning, I have felt nothing but support whether it was through trainings, working with the staff, or learning from the Tools resources. One of my favorite memories was having our Tools partner Aisha come visit my classroom. She was always there to provide support to me and my students, and also give me new ideas of how to expand on the curriculum. I have learned so much and continue to learn every day, which I feel is so important as an educator!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I highly recommend using Tools. Your students will leave preschool with the academic and foundational skills needed for Kindergarten.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The Venger Drawing activity.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has allowed children to focus on practicing and creating roles, props, and actions within their play.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has changed our focus to supporting children within their play.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Children in the Tools classrooms are learning self-regulation and other important skills through play.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
This year especially, I focused on implementing role and action cards with my students in Make-Believe Play. I noticed students were more regulated and using more language while playing.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
A Tools classroom may look different, it will be busy and loud. Within the classroom, though, there are many learning opportunities and ways teachers can support each student depending on their needs.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
So much! Seeing all the growth come from every activity.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I see kids come in not even drawing pictures, and leave writing words!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It has helped me to keep learning and become the best I can be for the kids.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I personally feel Make-Believe Play Planning has such a profound impact.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
In Make-Believe Play Planning, children's use of private speech when drawing pictures and writing letters has really helped engage them in a fun way to learn.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
You will enjoy the process.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools is the way we run Opening Group. I like that there are multiple areas of learning we can go through each morning.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
It has taught them to work together.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It has opened my eyes to different levels of students in my classroom.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The constant flow of the schedule.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has impacted me as an educator by showing how the students can help each other in different games. A higher student of mine has taken on a younger peer this year, really guiding them. I notice the higher student helping with Mystery Question in the mornings and making sure this younger student is where they are supposed to be throughout the day.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would tell them to first go through the manual and then watch the videos, they are very helpful in learning the games and activities.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Hard to pick a favorite! I appreciate the ease of the ready-made lesson plans. I love Message of the Day and Make-Believe Play Planning. Opening Group is wonderful, too.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students have strong letter knowledge by the end of the year, particularly letter sounds which aren't even an expectation in my district for PreK. They are also familiar with working with a peer partner, talking through ideas, and working together to play games.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I love Tools, it has helped me feel like a successful educator who can help ALL students learn.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Pretend play in all centers is very different, and the children love it! I also think the level of interaction students have with each other and their participation in their own learning is larger. The amount of child talk is also not typical of a classroom, and I think helps the students build their knowledge and confidence. I also like all of the built-in learning games that can be incorporated when you have those moments in the hallway or before the next activity, all of which are designed to help with learning academic and self-regulation skills.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has made my job of moving students forward easier. For example, working for just a minute or two each day with most children during Make-Believe Play Planning is a relief to offer them individual scaffolding daily and see the progress throughout the year.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would share my students' data over the last three years of where they started and where they ended. The data speaks for itself. Tools moves children forward in the skills they need for the next school year, it is fun and easy for the students and teachers. I can't imagine ever teaching using a different curriculum!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love the play plans! The Make-Believe Play Planning wheel with name chart helps build self-regulation into Make-Believe Play Planning and leads to tremendous growth. Message of the Day, Timeline Calendar, and Graphics Practice are favorites of mine.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The impact on the children in my classroom has been great! Make-Believe Play Plans and Play Practice have enabled us to increase the time and depth of play for even the youngest children. Now, they are not only able to play for longer periods of time, but also the play is quite mature. They have developed great dialogue, vocabulary concepts, and the creativity of props is amazing! The early literacy skills that have naturally developed through Message of the Day and Make-Believe Play Plans is amazing.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Play as a means of instruction and the principles of Vygotsky have been a part of my repertoire for almost 20 years. However, I feel I have grown greatly as an educator because of the Tools program. Tools clearly and effectively connects the research to the practice and enables me to put my educational beliefs into concrete action. I feel I have grown more in the past year and half than at any other point in my 30-year career. Tools helped me utilize and build upon self-regulation skills. It made me realize the why behind what I was doing in the classroom. In addition, the Kindergarten teachers see the difference in the children who attended our UPK with Tools compared to the other UPK program which does not use Tools.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The built-in self-regulation components and developmentally appropriateness of Tools changes the classroom in such a positive way. Tools enabled me to make connections and impact the development on the children in my class in ways I could not imagine. There is always a hum of excitement and learning!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One story that comes to mind is that of a child who would tantrum and hide when she didn't get the play center she wanted at the beginning of the year. Through the use of the planning wheel and name clip chart, she quickly realized when her turn would be and she would have a back-up choice or two. I cried "tears of joy" the day she said, "I wanted to go to kitchen but it's closed so I'll go another day!" The use of the mediators made this transition easier for her than just trying to use words to explain it.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Don't hesitate! Tools is a comprehensive program that meets the needs of children, provides strong training and coaching for the teachers, and is cost effective. The training I have received over the past two years is superior to any training I have had as a teacher. Through Tools, your children will grow and so will your teachers!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I absolutely love Make-Believe Play Planning, and bringing purpose, literacy and language development to play!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has helped improve our preschoolers' ability to self-regulate.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Using the concept of the Zone of Proximal Development has been a wonderful way to help students grow and learn. Learning the best scaffolding practices has also helped students build independence.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I personally feel as though there is more academic growth, especially in language development, self-regulation, and basic math skills.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The Sound Maps have even helped me assist older students in finding letter sounds and writing words!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
GO FOR IT!! It is the best.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love that Tools allows my students to problem-solve and create a deeper level of thinking.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has impacted not only my students but the preschool program as a whole. It has introduced ways to connect with students that allow them to feel comfortable and confident throughout their learning experience.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has taught me to embrace child talk. A preschool classroom should be active, fun, and provide challenge!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools classrooms are immersed in different themes and always changing. It makes them fun and inviting not only for the students but also for anyone who enters!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I had a student who was receiving speech services. They often left off beginning and ending sounds, left out words, did not use complete sentences, etc. when speaking. I believe the combination of using Choral Responses, Double Talk, Message of the Day, and Make-Believe Play Plans helped them to improve their speech and better understand word and sentence structure. They made significant progress with their speech and critical thinking skills!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would tell them to trust the process! It can be a little tough to get used to, especially if you are coming from programs that emphasize students raising their hands to speak and maintaining the same centers for the entire year. It is so worth it to see the progress your students can make when you dive into the program.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I enjoy seeing the growth of students' writing using Make-Believe Play Plans and Scaffolded Writing.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I have seen students writing, language and math skills grow.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has helped me become a better teacher through using precise scaffolds for learning objectives. Tools has helped keep our school all on the same Scope and Sequence, guaranteeing that every classroom is getting the same rigorous education.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The Tools classroom is very heavy on opportunities for children to develop language and social emotional skills through dramatic play by acting out roles and scenarios linked to each themed unit.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has helped me as an educator to look deeper at each child's Zone of Proximal Development and quickly decide what scaffold is appropriate for what they are learning. I have had the privilege to see many of my students getting ready for kindergarten as they are using Sounds Maps in the early stages of writing.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools is a great curriculum that is chalk full of well-researched methods of teaching. Tools has helped to create self-regulation in students, allowing them to learn and grow within their Zone of Proximal Development. Tools is good for creating opportunities for students' language to grow through play which is super important in Early Childhood Education. Tools has also allowed our school to have a Scope and Sequence that is consistent across the school, ensuring that every child is receiving the same opportunity to learn. The skills that many of the students are walking away with have prepared them to be successful lifelong learners.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The self-regulation.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Our children have become more regulated.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Our educators have incorporated greater intentional learning experiences through Make-Believe Play.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The Make-Believe Play theme layer!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has created the groundwork for increasing the social emotional competency of our little learners.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would recommend they spend a day in a Tools classroom.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love Graphics Practice!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The students follow a routine, and they learn to self-regulate as well as help others regulate. They also help create the classroom play theme by making the props for the centers.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
We help each other and collaborate with the different themes. We give each other advice or tools that we use for the themes and centers.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The students learn to have a sense of imagination and be creative in their own way. The age range is 3-5 and the older kids help the younger ones navigate throughout the day.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I just love seeing the progress and growth in the one or two years I have with them. Seeing their Make-Believe Play Plans improve is just incredible to watch.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
It is a great curriculum where there is a lot of playing and they learn about routines, and being responsible and kind. They learn how to manage their emotions.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Make-Believe Play is one of my favorite parts of Tools. The creativity and excitement at the start of each theme sets the tone for the whole unit.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The repetitive and consistent nature of the daily schedule provides opportunities to scaffold in small groups and to keep data on development and progress.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Almost everything is provided for you and there is always room to grow and change each year.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love the self-regulation aspect of the curriculum.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
It has helped the students with their learning and language development through play!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It has helped with classroom management, self-regulation, and allowing us to let our little learners explore and grow at their own pace.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The classroom is play-based and runs on the creativity of the students.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
It has helped me to let the students take the lead more in the classroom and let activities be student-driven.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
If you believe that learning through play is important for young learners then this is the curriculum for you!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
How interactive it is for the students. Activities are hands-on and children are always engaged.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Their self-regulation is amazing. They can sit longer and attain better than classes I have had in the past. Also their educational gains and growth throughout the year are outstanding.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools really makes you step back and focus on the little things, then allows for you to see how those all add up to the big things, and how far it can take the kids in their learning.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The hands-on and play aspects of the curriculum. Children get to participate in all parts of their learning instead of sitting at a desk or carpet and just listening.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has really allowed me to step back and put learning in the students' hands. They work at their pace and I meet them at their level. That is truly amazing. It allows me to see where each child needs me, then be able to facilitate great conversations and learning opportunities. We play to learn. It brought back the fun into education.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Do it, you wont regret it. Watching their regulation, growth, and skills is something to see.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
It has such a strong literacy component.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
They are sounding out words, counting, and writing. Also, the strong self-regulation component is wonderful! They are very ready for Kindergarten after the two-year preschool program.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I love the detail and steps to refer to as you use the Activity Manual. It's not confusing to learn or teach, and it all has a purpose.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The classroom is very structured and busy compared to other curricula.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
It makes my life easier as I prep by following the Plan Book and Scope and Sequence.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would say there's always room to improve and supplement where needed, but it hits a lot of the development areas that we work on as preschool teachers.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Self-regulation activities
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
We are currently collecting data in the district to look at students who come from our in house PreK and receive Tools vs. students who do not have our PreK/ any PreK. We have noticed a preliminary trend that students who do have the foundations of Tools in PreK and Kindergarten are showing higher data in grades 1 - 3.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has helped to create a strong relationship between our PreK and Kindergarten teachers. They are able to have conversations about the program and students to show where there are concerns and what we can do to bridge gaps.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools classrooms have a purpose for every activity. There isn't a moment wasted - and all the activities can be adjusted based on age and ability.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has helped me with presenting information to teachers and parents about what is appropriate for their student. It allows us to look at the child individually and set them up for what their day will look like with scaffolding on their level.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
The benefits of the program are amazing for the children. You will be able to see how each student can be successful on their own educational path, even in a whole group activity.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The individual scaffolding of daily Make-Believe Play Plans, and their connection to play--it makes them purposeful and motivating.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I see the classroom community it creates and ability for all students to participate actively while building self-regulation skills.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Our data partnership with Tools has allowed us to look closer at the data we collect and make informed decisions on instruction and assessments.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools has reignited my passion and excitement for early childhood education! I love the amount of peer activities which allow children to take turns, build self-regulation, share ideas, and use their own voices to solve problems. The scaffolded writing process with daily Make-Believe Play Plans as well as Science Eyes and Story Lab—Story Extensions allows families and teachers to see the growth of our young writers over the course of the year.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One big difference for me was the "voices on" strategy so that all students can actively participate. At first this is difficult to get used to if you are typically a teacher that has students raise their hands for questions that are asked. While difficult to get used to at first, it is quickly obvious that this allows for everyone to feel that they can contribute.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools allows all students to grow at their own pace based on their Zone of Proximal Development. This program meets students where they are at, but also provides daily scaffolding to help them grow. There are so many built-in ways to build self-regulation and allow them to work cooperatively with peers.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love that you can gear it towards special education and scaffold each activity to fit the needs of each child.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools really helps my students with special needs learn how to self-regulate while having fun.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has changed my way of thinking about the abilities of my 3-5 year old students. It has shown me they are much more capable of greater challenges regardless of having special needs or not.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The activities are short and easy to learn. Your children can have so many different abilities, but be able to do the same activity by adjusting scaffolding.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
It has drastically changed the way I run my classroom. I had a student one year who would lie on the carpet. By the end of the year, he was able to sit up, pay attention, self-regulate, and really start to excel in academics.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Do not hesitate! It speaks for itself. You can not go wrong with implementing such an important building block to start the foundation of school readiness.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The Let's Pretend Books to support the themes, and the many games to support literacy, math and science.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I have seen significant improvement via scaffolded writing in the children's writing/Make-Believe Play Planning.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
There has definitely been a shift or change in the schedule with an increase in time to play to learn.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
It is a very play-based classroom with theme centers, different roles, and scenarios.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I have learned to keep so many items that I once viewed as trash. For example, a broken dryer belt worked great to make leashes for our pet store. The creativity is amazing.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
The classroom may look a little chaotic but the children are learning self-regulation and are growing socially and academically.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I have to say that I loved the Make-Believe Play Plans!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
In my classroom, I felt the 4 year olds learned the letters and sounds in a fun way.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The natural learning through Make-Believe Play Plans and play themes. Our students grew so much socially.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Truly learning through play!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The play themes and seeing the students socialize, working together to build a classroom community and learning all at the same time!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
It may look overwhelming at first, but give it the full year and see what the end of the year brings. The smiles on each student's face as they realize they are learning is every teacher's dream.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
2023 endorsements
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I enjoy watching my students grow especially children that are with me for two years. You can see the impact and progression of the program.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The children in my class continually learn to share, listen to one another, and express themselves throughout the day.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The excellent training leaves us better prepared to teach preschool.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The students have more freedom to use their imagination and be themselves during play. The world tends to rush our children. I believe this program is age appropriate for my students.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I love to watch my ELL students grow in Tools. During my first year of teaching Tools, twins entered my class and hardly spoke any English. Fortunately, they knew letters, shapes, and numbers. They only spoke during IHWH when they had the correct card. Through play the twins would not stop speaking during the middle of their second year of Tools. I wish I could take the credit, but I simply followed the program and the miracle happened.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
The program is beneficial because the kids are learning life skills through play.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite Tools activity is Graphics Practice, but I love how all of the activities build throughout the year and involve a large focus on self-regulation!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Academically, I have noticed a great increase in mathematical concepts. In addition to that, I have noticed a big change in our building's social and emotional awareness and ability to self-regulate.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Our program has become more focused on the developmental appropriateness of our preschool and what we expect from our students.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The focus on Make Believe Play in a Tools classroom makes it different from other programs. Allowing students to learn through play is amazing to watch!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I have found myself being even more aware and intentional in my teaching and coaching to make sure we are developmentally appropriate, scaffolding for students, and following best practices within our classrooms.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
This program has changed the way I think about preschool education and I have enjoyed watching my students as they develop throughout the year.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The creative growth I see in my students, and their ability to solve problems more peacefully.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Students are able to problem solve more independently, and think "outside of the box."
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
We have become more collaborative in our planning, and ways to prompt and let students explore and expand more independently.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Students are able to grow and develop skills at their own pace, at a developmentally appropriate level.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The tools of the mind program has taken me outside of my comfort level as a teacher. It has challenged me to challenge my students to direct their learning. While as an educator it is easy to deliver information and anticipate our students to absorb it, this program has required me to think differently. By modeling and scaffolding different learners needs, this program puts the learning on each student. In turn, it has been amazing to see my higher level learners and players teach other students.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would suggest that it is a different program to embrace, with major rewards. I would encourage them to have an open mind, and consider a program where play directs learning, problem solving, creativity, and interpersonal relationships.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love how age appropriate the Tools of the Mind curriculum is. I love that the children learn through play! It truly addresses the needs of the youngest learners.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools of the Mind has allowed the children in my classroom to learn through what they love to do, play! In turn, it has instilled a love of learning in them at such a young age. Academics are not forced and therefore, each child gets to develop at their own pace and in their own time.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools of the Mind has had a great impact on me. For the past two years, I have been able to not only see the growth as a teacher, but as a parent as well. My daughter Avery, attends the same preschool I teach in. Day after day, she would shock me with the new knowledge she would come home with. Her eagerness and immediate love to learn always reassured me on days I felt like maybe I didn't give my students what they needed, that my students are learning, and probably going home to their parents sharing new knowledge, just like my daughter was. Coming from an all preschool building, my colleagues and I are able to collaborate with each other daily. We often discuss the constant learning that goes on during the make believe play block. Children may be doing academics such as counting blocks or making tally marks for how many pizzas need to be made, but they are also learning so much more. They're learning how to communicate appropriately with peers, sharing, practicing back and forth conversation, manipulating objects, and so much more. The Make Believe Play Block is jam packed with such a variety of learning skills! My 3 year old daughter grew up before my eyes once she started the Tools of the Mind curriculum 2 years ago. Now that this year is coming to an end, she is graduating preschool with all of the "tools" she needs to succeed in Kindergarten. I feel very confident that she will thrive in kindergarten not only because of the skills she's learned from Tools of the Mind, but also because of the love of learning the curriculum instills within the students.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools of the Mind allows children to make their own choices and be independent. In a Tools classroom you will see children creating, building, learning, and growing before your eyes. Tools of the Mind is a very student centered approach and allows the child to make their own decisions.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools of the Mind has really shown me the importance of learning through play, especially during the preschool years. Tools has also taught me how meaningful a piece of artwork is to a child when it is not a cookie cutter craft. When children are left to create, glue, cut, color however they want, they are much more proud of their artwork rather than if it was a cookie cutter craft where everyone's looks the same.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
If they are looking for an age appropriate curriculum for preschoolers, Tools of the Mind is it. It allows children to master skills through independence, play, and guidance from teachers. Teachers are trained diligently to identify a students zone of proximal development. Teachers are trained to give children the help they need to succeed, and to not over scaffold.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Tools of the Mind has made teaching easy in the sense I can just focus on helping my students grow. I no longer need to create a curriculum, prep nightly for activities, and wonder if I'm meeting the needs of all of my students. Tools takes care of all of that while being extremely engaging and developmentally appropriate.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I have seen a huge impact on our students self regulation skills as well as writing skills.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Our team became so much stronger once we adopted Tools. We were dedicated to following this curriculum with fidelity and we are so glad we did! We work as one unit to ensure students in all of our 4k classrooms are receiving the same instruction.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The intentional make-believe play in Tools of the Mind is unique. We are not just sending students off to play. Instead we are teaching children how to play, how to take on roles, create meaningful props, use role speech and more. And in doing so we see these children grow in their confidence, speech skills, self regulation, cooperation with peers and more.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I use to come into work on Sundays to prep for the coming week. I would spend hours creating a play center for my students that they could be excited about. With the adoption of Tools, I no longer need to take my work home. By the end of my contract time I am ready to leave and prepared for the following day. Play centers are created with students, so I no longer take that on by myself. They have stake in what there room is transforming into.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I absolutely recommend Tools if the Mind. I am now so invested in this curriculum and district because of how much we love it! Follow with fidelity and you won't regret it.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Their activities focus on self regulation and make-believe play. The program centers itself on themes and encourages language and vocabulary development through make-believe play.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
We have seen our kindergartners more ready for school. Pre-k students that went through the Tools of the Mind Pre-k Program, learned the foundational skills necessary for kindergarten and are more prepared than others for the structure of the school day.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools of the Mind have provided wonderful trainings across the district for all of our teachers. There is more collaboration, team building and PLC's for our early childhood educators.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The Tools of the Mind classroom is very active. There is a great deal of learning and meaningful conversations going on within the classroom throughout the day.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
As the administrator/supervisor at Hawthorne Early Learning Center and the coordinator of Early Childhood in our district, Tools has taught all of our pre-k educators in the district how to collaborate, share and communicate ideas in regards to the Tools themes. There is team planning weekly and there are group emails where everyone can share ideas and thoughts about different Tools themes throughout the school year.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would say to read about Tools of the Mind and the successful data that the company has published. I would also suggest, anyone interested in Tools, should find a way to visit or observe a Tools of the Mind classroom in action. The program is set up for success for all the students. It teaches students how to self-regulate, socialize and learn, which in turn, sets them up for success in the future.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
It has helped students in my classroom by them gaining self regulations skills and working their own problems out themselves. It also helped them learn letter sounds by using the sound map during message of the day, play planning, and throughout the day when discussing letters.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has had a huge impact on my teaching practices over the years. Noticeable differences in our PALS testing scores especially in the areas of letter sound identification and beginning sounds expressive all through using the Sound Map. It has allowed me to let students be more independent and create their own props and be proud of their work.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools of the Mind classroom has a different approach to learning. It involves more of the students input and ideas. It shows them being more independent and working cooperatively with other students. Students take pride and ownership in their work.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has impacted my work in many ways. One way is letting students be more independent and creating their own props. It took a few years to let go of being in charge and putting that control in the hands of the children. Their minds think differently than ours and they come up with some amazing ideas to incorporate into our themes. The biggest impact for me to realize is that it doesn't have to be book PERFECT as long as they are proud and excited, that's all that matters!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
It is a worthwhile curriculum for many reasons. Within the course of a few months you will see a huge difference in the classroom environment. Students will still be learning all the academic skills needed to succeed in Pre-k all while building strong self regulation skills. When self regulation is a huge part of the classroom, so many other things can take place.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The ability to infuse self-regulation into every aspect of the school day.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Our students are already "students" when they enter Kindergarten who have good foundational skills and are ready to embark on the next stage of their education.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
We have noticed an increase in self-regulation in our incoming Kindergarten students. Our Kindergarteners have made better strides compared to past incoming classes without Tools.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Children are active and engaged. Language is supported and growth is celebrated. Children are encouraged to be creative in all areas of play.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
When we opened our program in 2018 we had an entirely new staff. As the Instructional Coach I have learned so much from the Tools staff as they helped us learn the program and navigate all the questions we had. They have truly been a partner in our program over the past 5 years.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools of the Mind, as an entity, is extremely supportive of the programs using Tools. Staff are always available to answer questions. Trainers truly form a partnership with the school.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program is how engaging it makes the classroom and it provides a lot of opportunities for small group or on on one interactions.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The impact that Tools has had on children in my classroom has been their ability to self-regulate and become higher level thinkers by understanding the why and the purpose of components in their day.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
As an educator, Tools has had a major impact on my practice because it has helped me to understand the benefits of meeting EACH student where they are and gave me several tools to help scaffold individually to promote growth and independence.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools of the Mind classroom is different because it is more engaging because students learn through play. Tools classrooms are structured for peer to peer interaction and helps students internalize roles with and without mediators.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
My second year teaching I was fully committed to teach Tools to fidelity and it was the best decision for my practice and my students. Students begin to independently make connections across content, I heard them using private speech they've learned from graphics practice when they were in the art centers, and they were comfortable problem solving on their own. I sat back and watched how well Tools has benefited them because I realized how independent they had become.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would tell anyone considering implementing Tools of the Mind to trust the process and be prepared to teach Tools to fidelity. Tools is a program that promotes growth and it grows with with children.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Love the curriculum, how it is geared towards building self regulation.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
It has helped students self regulate and grow to their highest potential. The goal in tools is to build children’s ability to learn as they build content knowledge.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I love the curriculum for various reasons, I love the theory behind it, I love the activities (small group, large group, Play planning, Make believe play story lab). The way they are all intertwined and help students regulate and grow.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
It is geared towards students self-regulation and how they learn through play. All the activities are designed to help meet the needs of all the students. Tools of mind classroom helps teachers work together to provide accommodation for a child with an IEP within the activity and within the classroom. The scaffolds contain accommodations that do not change the activity's original intent.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I have worked with many preschool curriculum, by far Tools of the mind is my favorite. I love how the curriculum provides the tools to ensure every child becomes a successful learner, in all domains to reach his or her highest potential.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Excellent curriculum
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
2022 endorsements
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Play!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
It has improved self regulation!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It made me love teaching again!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
It is developmentally appropriate.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools help create a love of learning and made learning fun through play.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
It is good for kids.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
It’s hard to pick just one of my favorite things about Tools. The one that sticks out the most is the growth that we see throughout the school year. Make-believe play kind of starts out a little on the immature side but once the children learn how to make a plan and pick a role for the centers it starts to become less chaotic and more mature. I also love that the children get to express their ideas for each center and help create the props. They get to use their imagination and it give them confidence.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has taught our children the skills they need to self regulate and with that they seem to be more focused and engaged.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Teachers get to implement Tools and see the children grow and show more independence each day. Its such a reward to see the children blossom with Tools.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Teachers help students by scaffolding during make-believe play and play planning to help them learn to write, challenge their thinking, teach them self regulation, peer scaffolding and independence. TOTM is good for all learning levels. Our classroom flows very nicely with Tools.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Before we used Tools our students would pick a center and play. The teachers in our room would walk around and talk with the children but they never made a plan before hand. Since we’ve started implementing Tools I’ve noticed way more pretend play and peer interaction rather than the children going in a center and not knowing what to do, how to play in it or with other children. Tools has changed my way of thinking and teaching. I’m so thankful to be a Tools of the Mind educator.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
It’s a wonderful way of teaching and I see way more growth with Tools than previous curriculums. Tools of the Mind is AMAZING! I’d prefer to work in a Tools classroom than any other.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The self regulation activities
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Better social emotional skills
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Having fun in the classroom and letting children lead the learning
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The fun
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Letting kids lead activities
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Keep the curriculum open to teachers
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite parts of the Tools of the Mind program are implementing academic practices into make believe play scenarios and the many opportunities and resources used to promote scaffolded writing across all learning areas.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has provided the students in our district with the exploration of background knowledge about the world around them while applying these explorations into all areas of academic knowledge.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has pushed the educators in our district to think outside the box. We work together to create amazing classroom environments and theme based learning centers that promote academic engagement and early development.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools of the Mind classroom is much more independent and student driven than one might think of a "typical" preschool classroom.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
There is no better feeling than seeing the growth of scaffolded writing through play planning. Students grow in so many skills that are reflected through this activity and as their two year journey completes you see not only academic skills grow but imagination, confidence, and independence.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools of the Mind is a great curriculum for scaffolding students into being great all around independent learners.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love the intentionality behind every single activity.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Since using Tools curriculum the progression of writing skills as well as play skills has greatly been affected. I love looking back to their play assessments and their play plans at various points throughout the year to concretely see their growth.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
As an early childhood educator I understand that young children learn through play and the great importance of this. Tools has impacted my planning for their play while incorporating the traditional "academic" skills such as numerical operations and letter knowledge into the specific theme and roles that we are currently learning about.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is different from other typical classrooms for many reasons. The level of self regulation that can be seen in the students, natural peer scaffolding and make believe play are just a few
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Theres way too many to think of just one.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools of the Mind is a developmentally appropriate curriculum that lends itself to be able to meet the needs of each individual child as well as the class as a whole. It is vital that the curriculum is implemented with fidelity and accuracy to reap the benefits. Continuous trainings on the Tools of the Mind curriculum is a MUST.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love seeing the growth throughout the year from my students in all areas.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The students are gaining the self-regulation they need to continue to be successful. In addition to enhancing their socialization skills and academic skills. I have seen so many of my students ending the school year with so much knowledge.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has had an amazing impact on all of our students, especially the students who are in the program for the full 2 years before going to Kindergarten. They start out as younger students the first year, then become role models in the classroom for the second year. The second year students get a chance to feel what it is to be in the classroom from two different perspectives. They also are always upping the challenge for themselves within the second year.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools Of the Mind expands students knowledge in many different ways. Whether it is becoming creative, imaginative, retaining new knowledge or obtaining social skills; I have seen it all. It differs from the average structure of the classroom. They are learning things in many different ways as well. This will help them with many different skills as they grow and mature throughout education.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I had a student for two years who struggled in many different areas his first year of Tools Of the Mind. He had poor self regulation skills, which impacted his academics and led to behaviors. When he came back for his second year of the program, his self-regulations skills were improving and he was definitely making progress. Being that the activities are a maximum of 15 minutes, he was able to build his self-regulation through the activities throughout the school year and retain more information. He found a love for the activities and would always ask for his favorite ones!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Start with the basics and understand what your children know and how they learn. Once you can obtain that information, then consistently up the challenge with the children so that they are always challenged.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love that there is a focus on self-regulation. I think that is the most important building block to any child's education. With self-regulation, children are able to be most open to new knowledge and be most successful in the classroom and beyond.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I like that the Tools program has brought self-regulation, structure and routine to the forefront of our classrooms in our district. Children thrive off of routine and structure. When self-regulation and routine are a focus in the curriculum, it makes for a positive and beneficial learning experience.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The impact that Tools has had on the educators in our district is a positive one. We are all on the same page as to what is most important in our students' development and learning.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools of the Mind classroom is different because it gives students so much independence while also learning about routine, responsibility and that self-regulation piece. It allows children to be children- learning through play and with developmentally appropriate activities and games.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I have seen my students grow tremendously with play planning. Children that were unable to verbalize what they wanted to do to matching voice to line to writing initial sounds and then eventually whole words on their play planning sheets is remarkable.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
With any new program, it is difficult to invest in and trust all aspects of just one curriculum and what it can do for students. It is important to understand the benefits of play for these little ones and what that can do for their development and overall academic experience. Every training and new experience that Tools provides to me, I understand more and more why it is such a beneficial opportunity to Tools in the classroom. Have an open mind and trust in the process.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love that it is play based.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The Tools curriculum has allowed my students to learn and grow in an environment that is perfectly suited to their developmental stage.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has given me the opportunity to allow my own creativity to be infused into the curriculum in a way that most curriculums do not.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Play-based, creative, fun!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has shown me that teaching literacy concepts to preschool aged children can be fun and stress-free. The children love doing play-plans.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would tell them all about the impact that Tools has had on my teaching practice and my students development.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
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What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools program is how it lets the children get so many chances to be so creative. In the beginning of the year they transform the classroom to look like different fairy tales. By the end of the year, their creativity has changed and they are creating their own stories and pictures to go along with their writing.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I believe, that from the Tools program, our children have self regulation, are amazing readers and writers and are amazing at working with a variety of children in the classroom.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I feel like the Tools program has helped me and my fellow educators to always feel supported. There are so many resources that come with the Tools program so if there are ever times where the children need to be challenged or their work modified it is always available.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I think the Tools classroom turns into a classroom with amazing flow. The children begin to know the games and become natural leaders. I love that the children can rely on their peers for support and I am able to step back and observe the learning taking place.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
During our learning centers I observed a child working on the ocean book that went along with Dolphins at Daybreak. She was able to read the sentence without using the tool box and I saw how proud of herself she was. Seeing the accomplishment written all over her face still makes me smile!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would ask that the administrators and teachers give the Tools of the Mind program a full two years. There is so much to learn the first year of the curriculum. By our second year, we felt like we knew the program so much more and were able to implement the activities and games with ease.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The importance in self-regulation in learning
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
All activities are designed to pay attention to all my students needs
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Scaffolded interactions with students lead to an incredible oral language development so new teachers are encourage to introduce this curriculum more and more in their daily basis.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I would say that our children are in a happy environment where they move up from one stage to another with just the right support until they are able to do it independently.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Every year we see how students come to my class with no language at all. It is a pleasure to see how they improve this over the year. We put a lot of emphasis on activities like Share the News, where at first they do not even know how to find a partner and have one or two words and they end up not just talking in a complete sentences but capable to put their thoughts into words, solve problems...
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
There is no other curriculum that can develop you students minds like Tools of the Mind.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Play planning is my favorite activity in the tools of the mind curriculum. I love to see the progress the children have made looking back at their plans from September to June.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The children in my classroom have progressed significantly with this curriculum. Students start in my class at three years old not being able to recognize their own name and end the program going into kindergarten recognizing and writing their name and speaking and writing in sentences. It is amazing to watch their transformation.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I was unsure how the basis of this curriculum could have such a major impact on children’s learning at such a young age until having had professional development training and implementing this curriculum in my classroom.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I love how this curriculum makes children think. They use critical thinking and open-ended thinking skills to interact with their peers during MBPB, turn and talk, and buddy reading.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
My idea of the tools of the mind curriculum changed a little throughout this process. Watching the children go through this process with me and looking at them through a lens really gave me a sense of which child needs more attention or needed to be challenged at a higher level. This process helped me to zone in on my student’s zpd at a more in-depth level.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
This curriculum really zones in on each students strengths and weaknesses. You will love how you are able to focus in on each child individually.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
There are so many things I love about the Tools of the Mind program. I love the fact that all of the centers are games that the kids play with a buddy or their small group. The kids don't even realize that they are learning new skills. They just think they are having fun playing games. I love the self-regulation that is embedded in each part of the day. I so enjoy watching the kids in the dramatization center. The way they get excited to dress up and act out the chapters, help each other remember details from the story, and go beyond the text remembering things from the background building powerpoints, really illustrates their impressive comrehension skills.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students love to come to school everyday. The biggest impact can be seen in their individual scaffolded writing. In all of my years of teaching, I have never seen kids become such brave writers. They never ask how to spell a word or sit with a blank paper not knowing what to do. They learn the step by step writing process and just go for it! Saying their message, making a line for each word and adding sounds, then more sounds and word patterns. It truly amazes me each year to see how far my students come from the first to the last day of school. It is quite an accomplishment to start the year at picture and make it all the way to word patterns by the end of the year. It is just wonderful!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I have been teaching kindergarten in the Gillett School District for the past 35 years. When the Tools of the Mind program was implemented at my school 4 years ago, I was immediately onboard. I thought finally, a curriculum that is centered around play! I had been wanting that for years. I felt like kindergarten had become a mini first grade and the practices and strategies were not developmentally appropriate. Tools has reignited my passion for teaching kindergarten after all of these years!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
When you walk into a Tools classroom, you will never see kids sitting at tables quietly doing meaningless workbook pages that are not developmentally appropriate. Instead, you will see groups of kids at center tables playing literacy and math games with partners or small groups. You will see kids acting out parts of stories or fairy tales with fun costumes and props. You will hear kids talking and helping each other learn and celebrating each others' successes. You will see the teacher walking around faciiitating learning at each center. Giving each group the support that they need at that moment in time.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The mother of one of my students shared a video with me of her daughter, who is in my class, playing school at home. She did all of the parts of opening group flawlessly. She even did some self-regulatation actiivties because her dad was being a little naughty and off task. It was so funny and cute. Her mom gushed over how much her daughter loves school and how much she is learning. That little video really reinforced to me that I was making a difference thanks to Tools.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would tell an administrator to have their kindergarten teachers observe a Tools classroom for a day. They will fall in love with the program like I did. The kids will love school, the teachers will get excited about teaching again, and the parents will be blown away by their child's enthusiasm for learning and the amazing progress they make. It's a win for everyone!!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Play Planning: draw yourself, draw you being the firefighter, draw your lines, draw your words "I am going to put out the fire"
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Learning while playing, using their imagination in different role play activities.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
n/a
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The students are part of the creativity of the various centers.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools of the Mind has made think outside the box.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Go for it!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Watching children imaginations flourish within make believe play!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has allowed my students to gain self-regulatory skills that they will utilize both in and out of the classroom for years to come
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has allowed me to take a step back from the typical brick and mortar way of teaching and allow room for students to learn from each other.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Student led learning!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has allowed me to feel less stressed when it comes to planning and prepping as the "work" is done by the students. They are so involved in prepping and creating their learning environments and it makes them excited and happy to learn when they know they are in charge of what they do!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Do not hesitate!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite activity in Tools of The Mind is Play Planning. I love seeing the children develop their fine motor skills through drawing and writing. I also like the fact that Play Planning aids in their make-believe play pratice through role and action cards.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students are all Native Spanish speakers. The mediators help the children bridge the gap between their native language and english.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I love the way Tools builds on prior activities. It has set up my students for success in Kindergarten!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools is a structured curriculum. The children know what to anticipate daily through the schedule and routines.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has deepened my teaching experience through scaffolding. I love the way that children can progress at their own level through the curriculum.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would definitely consider Tools of the Mind as your curriculum. I love the structure and the progression of the activities.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Make Believe Play
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I have observed a marked improvement in Emergent Writing and Social Skills since implementing Tools.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools helps to maintain a cohesive and collaborative curriculum across our program.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools classroom is different in its approach to Make Believe Play with play practice, ebooks and planning to help the children replicate and extend their play despite prior experience.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has given me an abundance of resources to utilize and to make a greater impact on the way my students interact with each other and make believe play.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Visit a classroom that has been implementing Tools for a few years and observe to see if it would work with your community of students.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools of the Mind is that is truly meets the developmental needs of my Prek class. They are so engaged in the Make-Believe play planning and plan that they are motivated to write daily and feel proud of the progress they can see in their play plans. I also love the play! My classroom is filled with joy when students are in Make-Believe play centers in their roles.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
My students have had more regulatory skills because of the practice woven throughout the day in activities like freeze dance and graphics practice.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
In the beginning you do have to gather many things for the different themes. I like that I have been using TOM for several years now and I have everything I need to make smooth and easy transition between themes. It really has eliminated the need for me to take work home with me and I appreciate that greatly!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools of the Mind classroom has so much happiness because the activities and daily routines are engaging and fun for students!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools of the Mind has helped to solidify the ritual and routines of the classroom because everything is so connected. It allows for students to thrive while in a play setting and promotes important regulatory skills in the kids. It has only helped me to better manage my classroom with rituals and routines that best support the ago of my students.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would say, "Do it! Your teachers and students will thank you!"
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools of the Mind is it is designed as a core curriculum that works for all children including those with special needs.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools of the Mind has had a significant impact on children in the Pequannock district. All children that have completed the program have shown readiness skills and are successful in Kindergarten.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools of the Mind has had a great impact on educators in the Pre-K program. We have all learned how to scaffold children appropriately and teach them self-regulation skills.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Activities are multi-level so instruction is individualized within the design of each activity.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has impacted me as a Pre-K teacher by allowing me to think outside the box. I love creating props with my students and allowing them to use their imaginations. When students are involved in developing materials for the centers they get invested and excited about learning.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would let administrators know that the Tools of the Mind program will allow children to develop self-regulation skills, make-believe play skills, and be able to think creatively. They will be ready for Kindergarten after completing this program.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love how the program works for every student, with the flexibility to work with them at their level, and while playing! I also love how creative the students get, not only during play, but also during the building of the centers. They come up with better ideas than I ever could!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The children love that they get to play all day. I know have former students that stop me in the hallway and ask what theme we are in and tell me how they wished they were still in my class.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
As the sole 4K teacher in my building, it has made teaching so much more enjoyable. Watching the creativity of the children bloom in my classroom has been such a joy.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The hands on learning and play based approach are what have really made the difference in my classroom.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Since using the Tools of the Mind curriculum, I feel more confident as a teacher. I also love that there has been so much support, even after trainings have been completed, from my coach and peers in other districts, that use the same program.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
You will not regret investing in this program for your students, as well as for your district.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The play based learning.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
They have developed more vocabulary, social and cognitive skills.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It has helped us to focus on what is developmentally appropriate for young preschoolers as well as focusing on the skills they need before going to kindergarten.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
It is child centered.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I have seen my students become more independent and confident in themselves.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools of the Mind is geared towards how a young preschooler learns and focuses on the whole child. The children develop the pre-academic skills they need to be successful when they move onto kindergarten and beyond.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program is that it gives me the opportunity to diversify teaching based on each child's needs. With the use of teacher scaffolding children learn through role playing. I also like scaffolding during play planning. It gives me an opportunity to see where each child's writing development is as I work with them at their level and scaffold them to the next level of comfort for each student.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has had an impact on the children in my classroom because it teaches the children to self-regulate, allowing them to follow classroom routines and learning experiences. It gives the children an opportunity to develop language and vocabulary through play and learning activities.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools has impacted me in the sense that I've learned how to support children's learning while using the scaffolding approach. I've also learned to utilize outside resources when implementing the curriculum. Children learn about real-life scenarios while engaged in play.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Children learn through real-life experiences as they create props for role-playing. Students learn with the use of mediators and visuals. In this curriculum, children are encouraged to interact with others in 1-1, or small group settings.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
When I began using the Tools curriculum, I learned how to use real-life experiences to teach the class. At the beginning of the theme the class would take a field trip, sometimes a walking trip to a local place. One of the favorite trips was to the pizzeria, when introducing the Restaurant theme. The class had a tour around the pizzeria, watched the pizza maker make a pizza, and they got to eat the pizza. I also took photos which I used to create an experience story that the class would look at in the class library. Using the outside resources, and real-life experiences helped to enhance chldren's role playing and learning.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
The Tools curriculum is a great curriculum where children learn socially, academically, and behaviorally while learning self-regulation skills. Consistently using activities, and with trainings, the curriculum gets easier to teach.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
how developmentally appropriate it is for all learners!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
We have had so many students make such great progress through language skills, social emotional skills, and so much more. Our program keeps growing bigger and bigger and the curriculum is definitely part of the reason!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Every year the kindergarten teachers reach out and say they knew who came from our program and who didn't. Our students stand out as they are the ones coming into school the first day knowing how to self regulate! We love hearing that and how our students are truly ready learners!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
It's fun, exciting, predictable, but flexible! You don't get bored of it and you can always make it work for every learner!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Even though I loved teaching preschool prior to Tools of the mind, this program has truly made me enjoy and LOVE teaching everyday! I love coming to work everyday and doing what we do! I love to share and talk about Tools! I could talk for days about how wonderful it is!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
GO FOR IT! You won't REGRET it!!! Find the money to switch and do it!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Play planning
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Children enjoy their learning process
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools gives a very interesting language component to the lessons that enrich students vocabulary
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools offers a variety of supports to children while they are learning about different topics
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I love to see students sharing during center time. There was a girl who loves baking and she put on her apron and started to prepare a recipe to bake a cake to offer a birthday party, she used different tools to complete her task and then designed the invitations and shared them with her classmates.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools offers great resources to small classes. It is amazing to work in small groups (4 students Max 5) per group.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I’m impressed with the self regulation piece and the student created centers.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Students are learning to regulate themselves while learning and having fun at the same time.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
We are all learning to expand our thinking and our interactions with students.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A TOTM classroom is full of activity and student/teacher interactions.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools gives my students daily opportunities to grow and learn. Seeing them pretend and create has meant so much to me as an educator.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Do It! It works! I love the way the program builds on itself.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love play planning! Watching the students progress and growth throughout the year is amazing. Seeing students go from barely being able to draw a person to writing sentences is magical!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The self regulation that is occuring in our pre-k classrooms is amazing. The self regulation being built and developed here is helping students in the long run in their future educational career.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It has helped me with my classroom management and understanding how critical self regulation is. The students leave our program with the tools they’ll need for a successful kindergarten year.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Everything! We utilize activities that can be scaffolded for each of our students & spend a lot of time learning & growing through play.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
By the end of the 20-21 school year, my class was able to spell and write numerous sight words thanks to our hard work with play planning, the sound map, & elkonin! I was blown away with my students progress and skills and I now know to never underestimate what a 3,4, or 5 year old can do!!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Take the leap! Self regulation is key & this is the program that will help!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program is that it gives me the opportunity to teach my students according to my student's individual needs. Scaffolding during activities helps me to see my student's individual needs and that gives me a baseline on how to direct my teaching. With scaffolding I see my students are learning through role playing. Scaffolding during play planning also allows me to see how my students are developing on their writing progress. I then can work with them at their level and then they can move to the next level according to their individual level of comfort.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The impact that Tools of the Mind has had on the children in my classroom, as well as the district is that it teaches our students to self-regulate. Self-regulating enables my students to follow classroom routines and learn through their experiences. These experiences help to expand the student's language and vocabulary through play and learning.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The impact that Tools has had on me as an educator is that I have supported my students learning through the scaffolding approach. I also like to implement the community to develop some of my centers. For example, setting up a drive through as a center and using some of the items that the students would recognize such as a coffee cup or an empty pack of French fries. The students love to work with these real-life manipulatives.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The Tools of the Mind is a different classroom due to the real-life experiences. The students enjoy creating and making the props. These props help to make their learning experience more realistic. In my experience most little children like to pretend to be an adult example, mommy or daddy. This program really lets the student expand their imagination.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One-way tools impacted my work as an educator was to truly use my imagination. I use my personal environment to bring materials to school to help my students in creating props for all the centers. I feel like every time I get a delivery from Amazon I'm always wondering how I can incorporate a box or an item to be recycled in my classroom. This curriculum has really helped me to become more creative so that my students have wonderful experiences in my classroom.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I would tell an administrator, coach or teacher that Tools of the Mind is a wonderful curriculum. I love that it self-regulates my students through their first journey of learning. I believe that what they learn in preschool is the foundation for the rest of their educational journey. Tools of the Mind is the best Tool to start this career!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love how Tools promotes self-regulation in the classroom throughout many activities. It also allows students to take ownership of the classroom through prop-building for the various themes. Finally, I love the meaningful learning that is done through fun and playful experiences.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Since switching to Tools of the Mind, my students have been much more engaged in their learning activities. It is also amazing to watch the students grow and support each other through their play and learning.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Since switching to Tools of the Mind, I love to come to work every day to play and have fun with my students.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools classrooms are constantly evolving and changing for the different themes. Students are able to help in this process through prop building. Tools classrooms also see students engaged in playful learning and interacting socially with their peers.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I believe that using Tools has made me a better and more creative educator. I am able to scaffold support to my students wherever their needs are to meet them at their level and help them to continue to grow and succeed.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools of the Mind will transform your teaching and classroom. It will help you have fun with teaching and building connections with your students.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Math
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has been an amazing way to learn through play.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I love how math games, like graphics practice leads and connect with letters.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Creativity
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I love seeing and listening the students engaged in conversation, actions and roles that leads them to be a character as a vet, cook or teacher for 40 minutes, sometimes doesn’t look as they’re pretending, it looks so good and real.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Is one of the best curriculum to work with.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The activities Are very INTENTIONAL, fun and easy to roll out!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The growth, in the children is awesome to see ! I believe that TOOLS allows the children to be a part of their learning .
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
For me, TOOLS has made me a better teacher. I am more organized, more intentional, and allows me to hone in on the ZPD of my students. TOOLS has also allowed me to think outside of the box when working with materials in my room. Bear counters are so much more then counters, unifix cubes can be transformed into candy bars and dog treats or remote controls for a tv. When carried out with fidelity, the growth, academically, socially and emotionally is amazing.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
It’s a very hands on approach. Children are constantly given opportunities to think, talk and plan. The activities are planned and organized and all students benefit from the various visual mediators.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Too many to think of just one.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Trust the process, the results will be amazing.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The Tools of the Mind program makes learning so much fun.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Kids love coming to school because of Center Time.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools of the Mind has made me a much better teacher. It has made our PreK program so much stronger.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Center play is so educational. Also the other components of the Tools program keep students actively involved. Students aren’t at their desk doing work sheets all day long.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools makes going to work so enjoyable. Happy kids make happy teachers.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Just give it a chance. Come observe in my classroom. Visit any Tools classroom and listen to the conversations the students have during center play, share the news, or buddy reading.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Play Plans
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
How the students like to play in the centers
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
How the students learn a lot of vocabulary
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The students experiment and play in different themes.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
One day my student went to the ice cream store, and she was able to order what she wanted.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Great job.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
All components work together in creating a community where students listen to each other and play together as they learn.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Students talk to each other and work collaboratively while acting out scenarios. They problem solve, delay gratification, work through feeling of waiting for a turn or not being first. Students seek support and ideas of peers.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It is harder for some teachers more than others, however, for me as an educator asking questions that make students think has been very important (as opposed to the drill and grill, who are you, what are you making, say "Hi, how can I help you). Tools promotes problem solving with peers. As an educator modeling with support and gradual release enables students to own their learning, their feelings and holds them accountable to peers and self.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Students co-create all centers, student voice is first and foremost. Students guide instruction. Student interactions foster a strong foundation in Social Emotional Learning.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
During our last unit of the year, Community Helpers, my paraprofessional and I were walking around the room supporting students in centers during MBP. We kept looking at each other and smiling or laughing. Our students were fishing in "Camping", mailing letters in the "Post Office", teaching graphics practice in School", putting on nail polish in the "Salon". Students were deciding when to change roles, "I am tired of waiting, can I be the mail carrier now", or "you be the student now and I will be the teacher". (My paraprofessional) and I were actually bored. We did not need to support students, model or intervene. This is success to me. Students were, for the most part, working together laughing, creating scenarios and/or problem solving.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Jump in, embrace the learning, Adult learning curve is steep and well worth it. Have an open mind. This is what play really is. Play with students!!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program is that students make enormous progress in their abilities in writing, math, self regulation and in their language.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The impact of Tools of the Mind has on the students is that they are ready to learn, they have better self regulation skills, they are able to work well with each other, and love coming to school.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The Tools of the Mind Program guides educators to know how to scaffold the children to the next step in all activities.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The Tools of the Mind classroom is different because everything we do has a purpose and the activities build on each other.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I have had many children over the years that come in with very little language. Some students could only says sounds and other children could only say a few words. At the end of the school year it is amazing how their language grows as they are in Make Believe Play Centers. They are able to stay in their roles and play well with the other children.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
The Tools of the Mind Program is amazing it really helps the children with self regulation, literacy and math skills. It gives the teacher the tools that they need to help their students reach their highest potential.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
There are so many wonderful things about the Tools of the Mind program, but perhaps my most favorite thing about Tools is that learning is centered around adaptable play themes. As a teacher and as a mom, I have always loved planning around a theme. I love coordinating Story Lab stories, songs, finger plays, Share the News topics, center materials, learning activities and props around play themes. I absolutely LOVE seeing the smiles and excitement on the faces of my students as we transform our room into different kinds of restaurants or a grocery store for example. Students are included in the theme planning process which helps to make their play experiences meaningful and therefore, leads to more mature play skills. I love how Tools of the Mind allows us to incorporate math, literacy, science and fine motor skills naturally into play.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools of the Mind has had an amazing impact on my students! Because it is designed to ensure that all young learners meet with success no matter their age or ability, the children in my classroom build confidence and develop the skills they will need to be lifelong learners. As preschool teachers our classrooms are often the "gateway" to students' educational journeys. Tools of the Mind provides a framework where children practice social-emotional, self-regulation, attention-focusing and academic skills in a fun and inviting atmosphere. Tools kids love coming to school! They develop a love of learning that stays with them through their elementary years and beyond. Countless parents have expressed to me how much progress they have witnessed in their children and how being part of a Tools of the Mind classroom has helped to set their children up for future success.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
As a teacher with over 30 years of teaching experience, my last 10 years teaching the Tools of the Mind Pre-K program have by far been the best! I absolutely LOVE coming to school each day and my enthusiasm for the program has only expanded over the years. My students are always so excited to learn and play and every day is a new adventure. Observing the progress that preschoolers make in this program is nothing short of amazing. I also love mentoring and guiding new Tools teachers and sharing my love of this program with others. I can't imagine teaching anything else!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools of the Mind classrooms are different because they allow for authentic and meaningful learning opportunities. Unlike traditional preschool programs that teach skills in isolation, young learners in Tools of the Mind classrooms develop skills naturally through intentional make-believe play. Math, literacy, language, motor and social-emotional skills are learned and practiced in the six play centers. Through teacher modeling, students draw and write a plan for what they will play. The Play Planning/Scaffolded Writing process teaches young learners concepts such as left to right orientation, voice-to-line match, and phonemic awareness. Students develop these skills as they attempt to communicate meaningful messages about what they will play. This occurs naturally and students learn because they want and need to learn. In this way, students internalize the learning and it sticks with them. Another thing that makes Tools classrooms unique is the fact that most learning takes place in small groups or partnered activities. Children are encouraged to interact in a variety of ways which builds social, language and academic skills. I love that in a Tools of the Mind classroom, students with special needs have the benefit of learning from the models of their typical peers and visa versa.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has had a tremendous impact on my teaching because it has shown me the importance of recognizing how young learners develop and learn. It has helped me to understand that children can't learn anything they are not developmentally ready to learn. The Tools activities have allowed me to assess where each student is developmentally and differentiate instruction to help each child meet his/her own potential. Tools has helped me transition from a more teacher-directed learning environment to a more student-centered environment.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Make the switch - you will not regret it! Tools of the Mind is a fun, dynamic program that provides young learners with practice in the essential skills needed for academic success- self-regulation and attention-focusing. The Tools program is designed to allow teachers to differentiate instruction to learners of various ages and abilities. As children practice executive function skills, teachers provide math and literacy instruction in a manner that allows children to reach their own potential in accordance with their developmental age - not their chronological age. The students in Tools of the Mind classrooms develop confidence in their abilities and absolutely LOVE coming to school and engaging in Tools activities. Student progress is absolutely amazing! Our Kindergarten teachers tell us that they can instantly tell the students that had the benefit of a Tools classroom from those who attended traditional programs. Although you may be skeptical at first, stick with it because Tools of the Mind works for young learners! To be perfectly honest, the first year will require lots of time and effort, but it will be worth it. Have fun, be creative and believe in the program.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Tools of the Mind focuses on self-regulation that allows my students to become independent, and I love how it promotes their social and emotional development to be successful learners in the future.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools of the Mind has an enormous impact on the children in my classroom, since it provides individualized scaffolding and allows the children to transition from needing assistance to being able to perform daily routines independently. It is a great way for children of all ages to be confident in trying new methods of learning.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It has helped me become more confident in creating activities that are individualized to my students, and has helped me become more resourceful to help my colleagues with providing materials related to each theme of study. I enjoy preparing my students for their transition from Pre-K to Kindergarten using the knowledge they gain from Tools of Mind.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools of the Mind helps children become masters of their own behavior, and helps them learn from real-life skills and scenarios. I love how Tools enables children to develop their understanding of cognitive, social and emotional skills. It allows children to question and manipulate their surroundings by using their vocabulary to pick up on cues and see aspects of learning with play.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
I had a bilingual and IEP student who had shown tremendous progress in all academic areas by using Tools of the Mind. She was able to write her first and last name, and learned letter sounds by doing play planning and MOD by the end of the school year and did so without any additional support.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools of the Mind is a complete package, and helps children become early readers by implementing self-regulation. There are plentiful of activities that allow my students to grow independent and ensure they are improving their social and emotional growth as well.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Tools of the Mind does an amazing job supporting Self regulation and executive functioning skills. I love how the program supports developmentally appropriate play and the modeling of language for ELLs and children with Special Needs.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
It has greatly and positively impacted children with language challenges learn and thrive in preschool. It also very naturally creates amazing social and emotional skills opportunities for the children to develop sharing, turn taking, coping skills, and empathy for others.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
TOM allows for teachers to be very creative in how they develop their themes. TOM also creates an environment of collaboration amongst the teachers.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The empasis on executive functioning skills. Also the researched levels of supports and scaffolds for both the teachers and students.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
TOM has set the tone for how crucial play is in Early Childhood. It is amazing to see children with Special Needs develop language, social skills, play skills, etc. through Make Believe Play.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
TOM is an amazing and developmentally appropriate curriculum that will support all learning needs and styles in the Early Childhood classrooms.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program is that it allows so much creativity for all students from various educational backgrounds. During make believe play children are able to progress from parallel play to cooperative play. It also provides so many opportunities for children to master academic skills and be successful. Play based learning is crucial for our youngest learners and Tools enables them to build on their background knowledge. This is so important.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The biggest impact that Tools has had in my classroom is that it motivates children to become independent learners and it provides so many opportunities for children to make connections to the world around them. The units provide real life scenarios that build on the children’s background. They also lend themselves to allow children to learn academic language that they will be able to use outside of the classroom.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
I believe that the biggest impact Tools has had in my classroom is the progression during play planning. I absolutely love to see how my students make the connection from their play plans to their make believe play. They think about what they are going to do, draw it, write about it and then go to their center and execute their plan. The connections are wonderful!
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I like the way that Tools promotes so much creativity in the classroom. Children work together to create props for make believe play. The various activities are designed to develop essential skills throughout the day. Children learn self regulation, physical and social emotional skills, cooperative play while also building on their academic skills. Tools also provides opportunities for teachers to focus on each child’s strengths and interests.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
My students made so many connections while completing play plans and participating in make believe play. I truly enjoyed listening to children as they played at centers and made home to school connections. During our hospital unit children were learning how to take care of the babies in the nursery. One of the kids shared that they went to the hospital when their baby sister was born and shared how to feed the baby. They also showed the other kids how they helped their parents take care of their baby sister at home. It was priceless!!! Love the connections!!!!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
A Tools of the Mind classroom fosters so much creativity and imaginative play that promotes academic success. It allows educators to meet children at their level and build a strong learning foundation. You are provided with the materials and strategies to build a successful classroom where ALL children can learn and succeed. You are able to teach the Whole Child in a positive and fun learning environment.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Being able to learn through the training
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
they know the routine very well
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Knowing how to handle time in class
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
More structured
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
no
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Its a good program
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The curriculum helps set the pathway for students to self regulate and become a community of learners. There are opportunities embedded into the curriculum for peer learning and scaffolding to support social emotional confidence and set the framework for a love of learning!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
While Tools of the Mind supports the development of the full child, I have witnessed extensive improvement in literacy development and self regulation in the children. My students leave my classroom with extensive learning experiences and motivation to read and write in Kindergarten. Their ability to work collaboratively and peer scaffold one another also truly shines through in a Tools of the mind classroom!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
The ongoing support from Tools trainers has been extremely beneficial! Their support, motivation, and encouragement have been very helpful.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The cooperative learning that takes place in a Tools of the Mind classroom is a step beyond what I have experienced working with other curriculum's I have implemented. The ownership the children have creating and implementing their play plans is like no other!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
The curriculum has really provided the support and foundation to truly scaffold each and every individual student. Vygotsky's theory truly shines through as social interaction is a key component in the curriculum and my role is to meet each child at their zone of proximal development and encourage both teacher scaffolding and peer scaffolding. The collaboration of learning in our classroom environment progresses throughout each school year and is so rewarding to witness first hand!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools of the mind has many different components, but has much room for individualization and ongoing support.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
The focus on self regulation piece. There is a huge difference in my students ability to self regulate since starting tools!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I truly feel like tools has created more self regulated students in the classroom!
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools provides continuous professional development opportunities to encourage and motivate us as educators.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The focus on student led learning and encouraging students to think outside of the box. Tools is an awesome opportunity for students to excel in academics through play and enjoyable activities.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools of the mind has impacted my work in a way that I never would have expected. Tools allows the opportunity to look deeper at the child as a whole. A deeper understanding of their emotional, physical and cognitive development. I have a particular special education student who struggles with self regulation. Through the use of the tools that are provided I was able to improve my students self regulation and he was able to maintain our classroom routine and transitions and even excel in class!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools is worth it!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love that the Tools program really meets the needs of diverse learners, while also developing the sense of a community within the classroom. Children of all developmental levels and backgrounds can participate in the activities together, but what the teacher does and says to scaffold each child within that activity is individualized.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
When I began teaching pre-k 20 years ago, the district had not yet adopted Tools of the Mind. Thinking back and comparing my early classes to what our Tools pre-k students do now, the difference in huge! I'm still in awe that many of our preschool students leave the program using letter/sound correspondences to write full sentences.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools of the Mind provides a lot of guidance for teachers in terms of what and how to teach. However, the themes still leave so much room for creativity and individuality as a teacher. It's the best of both worlds.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The focus on self-regulation is what makes Tools of the Mind unique. Self-regulation is embedded throughout every component of the day. Students leave the program not only knowing their preschool concepts, but more importantly with skills that enable them to be good learners!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
After becoming a Tools coach, I'm an even bigger fan than when I was teaching it in the classroom. Through my coaching, I've been able to dig deeper into my understanding of the curriculum. I appreciate even more all the elements of Tools that can be used to troubleshoot common classroom challenges such as classroom management and differentiation. When you truly believe in something, that certainly makes coaching a little easier!
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Do it! :)
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
Attention focus songs, Make Believe play centers and play planning
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Positive peer/teacher interactions, regulating emotions, regulating peers, social skills awareness, early literacy, writing, and math skills
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Better classroom management, attention focus techniques, useful daily assessments of students, and effective collaboration and planning with colleagues
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Students are always practicing self regulating skills with every single activity because it’s embedded. Students are not completing useless worksheets. Love that every activity has a sharing component.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tremendously has had a positive impact in my classroom. My favorite aspect is the peer scaffolding. My students will help each other. Prior to Tools, I would be teaching social skills multiple times a day and students would fight with each other often. Now, when I hear and see them interacting and assisting each other in all settings (whole group, small group, and partner work) it makes the day run so much more smoothly. And they are very accepting of feedback from peers as well. A common phrase on my classroom is “ask a friend or try to problem solve” instead of me intervening right away with every situation.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Definitely implement it! Students are practicing self regulation skills all day long without the teacher having to do anything more than teach and model! The themed play centers are so much fun! I have middle schools who ask to come play in my classroom in the centers!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
2021 endorsements
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I think that Tools has had a tremendous positive impact on my classrooms. The students develop so much independence and self-control. The themes provide real-life scenarios that the students can play while using vocabulary and language.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I love that Tools allows the students so much independence.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
I think that when you “buy in” to the program you will truly see amazing things come out of it.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
I love how the Play Plans show the children’s progression throughout the year. It’s almost like an old fashion flip book, you can see the differences with each page. It is amazing to see how the children progress through all the stages of writing.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools of the Mind teaches children how to work together, through Buddy Reading, Turn and Talk, partnering during math games, and make-believe play. Most programs have a teacher-directed approach to everything including play. Tools wants the children to investigate and share with their peers. This gives them a sense of independence and confidence that will help them in later years. Tools also allows for mistakes. When playing partner games in math, the student is taught to say, “You have one too many cubes. Try again.” or “Good job.” It is positive critical feedback, not negative criticism they receive from their peer; you made a mistake, but you can try again.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
You will LOVE this program! I can’t believe the progress my children make every year in my classroom. Socially, emotionally and academically, my students just amaze me!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I think it has made our children more prepared for kindergarten and bridged the gap between preschool and kindergarten.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It has made our educators more intentional in their teaching practices.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools of The Mind classroom is a place of positive learning and allows the students to become more independent learners.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
There are many things that I find beneficial with the Tools program, but I really think the focus on scaffolding is one of my favorites. Focusing on each student’s individual learning is extremely beneficial and the training really helps Tools teachers center student learning in the appropriate zone of development.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The Tools program has helped our students reach more mature levels of play. Knowing that this will help them achieve success in their future is very rewarding.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools of the Mind has unified the teachers in our program. Following this curriculum and sharing ideas collaboratively has helped create a strong learning environment for all our students.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools of the Mind classrooms have a strong focus on self-regulation. All of the activities are designed to develop cognitive, physical or social emotional self-regulation at the same time academic skills are being taught. Tools classrooms help children practice how to purposefully pay attention, ignore distractions, and be reflective while learning. Working on these underlying abilities simultaneously with academic skills better prepares children for future success.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Using Tools as both a teacher and a coach has reframed the way I think about how young children learn. It has given me a lens through which I can coach teachers to have better outcomes with their children. I have shifted my focus to include the development of mental tools in addition to the acquisition of facts and skills, always keeping in mind the child’s ZPD. Helping teachers focus their instruction with a very specific and individual target has made them more aware of the process, rather than just the end result. It has caused teachers to shift their mindset and think critically about what it takes to reach a goal, and what progress looks like.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools of the Mind is an innovative, cutting-edge program that works for all students regardless of prior experience, socio-economic status, or ability. There is something for every child on every level and the program meets the children where they are and grows with them. Tools has fantastic resources and support for teachers, coaches and administrators.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools of the Mind has given our teachers an opportunity to be more involved in their children’s learning. By offering small group activities and being more present during Make-Believe Play time, our teachers are able to actively participate, as well as assess the children while playing and enjoying their company.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
As a new Master Teacher, I feel as though the Tools of the Mind curriculum has helped me assist my teachers in setting up their classrooms. Through establishing their schedules, setting up their environments, and labeling their classrooms, I feel that they had a good foundation to start the year off on the right foot.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
Tools of the Mind is a wonderful curriculum. It encourages students to become independent and assists them with their self-regulation skills. The environments create a foundation for interactions and play-based learning which is supported by the curriculum. Using the math games, as well as the Story Labs and large group literacy blocks, the teacher is able to provide the students with varied opportunities to learn and grow, while having fun doing it!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The discovery and “aha” moments the students go through and how their play, language and interactions improve as the year goes by. It is beautiful!
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
The first year is the hardest, like with any new curriculum, but trust yourself and the knowledge to take you through the year. Every training will place you further in your learning and discovery, it is completely worth it!
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
The trainings offered by the Tools of the Mind team have been so supportive in the exact moment the teacher needs the support. It helps you to constantly move and learn with the children’s discoveries.
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools has afforded teachers the opportunity to tailor the learning experience to each individual student and their needs.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
A Tools of the Mind classroom is filled with joy.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
Tools has allowed me to continue to put play and developmentally appropriate practices at the forefront of what I do.
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
It has increased their play skills, self-regulation and executive functioning, as well as literacy skills.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
It has helped them to be creative and reflect on how their students are learning.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
The classrooms can be turned into different places where the themes are based on students’ interests so that they can engage in developmentally appropriate practices to help them reach their full potential.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite part of teaching Tools of the Mind is the individualization and personalization that the curriculum allows. Scaffolded Writing provides time for me to differentiate writing skills for my diverse group of three- and four-year-old learners. My students look forward to small group time where they have time to do fun activities with their peers and a teacher. I love being able to tailor the dramatic play areas to the interests of my students. The individualization and personalization is so important for the development of preschool students!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
I like that Tools of the Mind has brought routine and structure to my classroom. I think that having a predictable routine with repeated elements and activities allows for my students to grow and develop their self-regulation skills. Students who can self-regulate are able to engage in much more meaningful learning experiences.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
One of my favorite quotes is from Albert Einstein. He said, “play is the highest form of research.” If you, too, believe in the importance of learning through play and the development of social skills and self-regulation, you should look into bringing Tools of the Mind to your district.
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
2020 endorsements
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about Tools is the ability to imagine! The curriculum fosters learning through mature play by using prop-making, role playing, and the beautiful natural born ability to make-believe! This is absolutely my favorite part of Tools, and the children’s as well.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
Tools provides opportunities for all children including those who come from homes with less experience and exposure. Tools provides an extra layer of school readiness! It not only exposes children to an array of skills, but it fosters language, positive social interaction, mature play, experiences, and a love for and pride in learning.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Tools meets each child at their specific level. Children come into the classroom at varying ages from 3-years-old to 5-years-old with equally varying skills, backgrounds, development and self-regulation, and in Tools, they can thrive in the same classroom. Tools caters to each of those varying levels, promoting every child’s growth and success.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program is the overall philosophy of learning through play. The program is packed with developmentally appropriate activities all day long, allowing young children to thrive. The curriculum enhances the social, emotional, and cognitive abilities of all children through a developmentally appropriate and innovative method. Specifically, I love the Scaffolded Writing process, Play Planning, and the Make-Believe Play that enable children to experience success on a daily basis.
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
The impact Tools has had on students in our district has been amazing and continues to be a source of strength for our young learners. I’ve had the incredible opportunity over many years to watch numerous children thrive and succeed starting in our Tools preschools and going on to graduate from Neptune High School. Tools of the Mind provides endless learning possibilities to all children and meets the needs of those who come from homes with less experience and exposure; ultimately giving each child a chance to achieve success on a daily basis. Tools of the Mind’s combined focus on executive functions and early academic learning provides the strongest foundation for early success in school; bridging the gap for many students.
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
As a Master Teacher, I believe the program has enhanced the way educators think, create, imagine, and reflect on how young children learn. The curriculum fosters learning through mature play––teachers are able to encourage prop-making, role-playing, and the ability to help children make-believe. As a Master Teacher, I love walking into classrooms and seeing kids in imaginative, creative play. When teachers fully embrace the Tools of the Mind curriculum, they gain so much insight and discovery into how young children truly learn and develop. This evolution of how young children learn through Tools has had the most impact on teachers in our district.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
My favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program is that it provides students and teachers with the right tools to be successful. The teachers don’t have to spend time creating lessons and reinventing the wheel because the wheel is already created and perfectly round!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
Tools of the Mind provides professional development and coaching to teachers. This makes teachers feel confident and supported.
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
During the time that I was a kindergarten teacher, I worked with students that didn’t have the opportunity to travel anywhere. When I read the Magic Tree House books to them followed by Make-Believe Play/Dramatization, I enjoyed watching my students traveling to different places using their imagination. Seven years later, I received an email from one of my students, and she wrote “I want to say hi to my favorite teacher. Thank you for teaching me to travel to Japan using my imagination. My dream is to go to college to be a teacher and with my first salary I want to go to Japan.”
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
What is your favorite thing about the Tools of the Mind program?
To pick one favorite part of the Tools curriculum is tricky! One aspect of the Tools curriculum that I really like is Play Planning. There is so much that goes on developmentally during this time. Self-regulation skills, cognitive skills, and literacy development are all being addressed during this time. In my classroom of three-year-olds, every one of my students is at a different developmental level. Play Planning is a great activity to engage in one-on-one scaffolding. Each child is scaffolded by me as a teacher, and they also scaffold other students, and I love that!
What impact has Tools had on the children in your classroom, program and/or district?
What impact has Tools had on you and/or the educators in your program/district?
What makes a Tools of the Mind classroom different?
I have been teaching in the Early Childhood profession for about 12 years now. I have taught many different curriculums in the past. Tools of the Mind is by far one of the best curriculums that I have used. Learning through play is one of the best ways to teach, especially children at a young age. Many curriculums touch on this aspect, but I believe the Tools curriculum takes it to a different level. Learning through real-life scenarios and roles are ways that a child can not only learn about the real word, but learn key skills along the way.
Can you share one story of how Tools has impacted your work as an educator?
What would you say to an administrator, coach or teacher considering implementing Tools of the Mind?
What do teachers learn in Tools of the Mind professional development?
Not only do teachers learn how to implement the curriculum, but you also learn about child development and key skills that will help a child to be successful in life and learning in the future!
Tools of the Mind gives teachers the tools to ensure every child becomes a successful learner and reaches their highest potential.
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