Rachel Holden

Canadian links! With over 20 years of teaching, this list includes the books that I love to hear over and over again as much as the students love to listen. Not only are they fabulous for the primary classroom, but they deserve to be part of your family library for years to come!

As a primary teacher with over 20 years of classroom experience, I've read thousands of picture books—and these are the ones that truly shine. This carefully selected list is perfect for children ages 4 to 8 and includes hidden gems, timeless favorites, and books that spark curiosity, empathy, and joy. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, new teacher, or a seasoned educator looking to refresh your library, these titles are classroom-tested and kid-approved. Many teachers have told me they’d never heard of some of these books before—and now they’re favorites! Let this list take the guesswork out of choosing meaningful, high-quality reads for the young children in your life.

With 21 years of teaching experience, I’ve handpicked these resources to make learning to read simple and effective. Each one supports systematic phonics — helping children master letter sounds, blending, and building fluency. Whether you want to give your child an early boost or provide targeted intervention, these tools are classroom‑tested and parent‑approved.

Some books are classics! Some books evolve with authors. These books get the seal of approval from an avid book lover who was in my grade one class last year! This child had SO MANY of these books and would ask me to read some very day...and I did! I'm obsessed!

There is no substitute for quality animal toys. If you have a child who loves animals, I highly suggest investing in Schliech and Toobs. I have bought animals from dollar stores and other places and they are OK... but the details of the animals in my list encourage deep conversations about animals, their adaptations, and habitats. Start collecting! Find a special place to keep them! You could have a future zoologist in the making!

My Fav Teacher Things! is a heartfelt and vibrant list curated by veteran educator Rachel Holden, drawing on her 20 years of teaching experience. Within these 16 thoughtfully chosen items, she shares her essentials—the tools, comforts, and quirky favorites that make teaching joyful year after year. From colorful flair felt-tip pens and retro scratch‑and‑sniff stickers to charming teacher-themed crewnecks (handpicked from Etsy Canada) and beloved classroom stamps, Rachel offers a playful and practical blend of must-haves. She also highlights creative favorites—like a delightful assortment of puppets (including her cherished “Longjohn Black and Blueberry Kid” chef puppet, inspired by *Puff the Magic Dragon*)—alongside dependable classroom staples such as Mr. Sketch scented markers. She rounds things out with personal indulgences to recharge: a trusty electric pencil sharpener (a cherished gift still going strong after six years), comfy Nike running shoes, a tumbler, and her go-to allergy‑friendly sunscreen. Whether you’re a fellow teacher, a thoughtful gift-giver, or simply love clever, classroom-tested recommendations, this list is full of charm, practicality, and Rachel’s unmistakable love for teaching.

Wellness meets city living. This board features my go-to Arbonne products that help me stay energized, balanced, and thriving in the hustle of everyday life. From the refreshing Green Synergy Elixir to the bubbly boost of Elixir Fizz, these favorites keep my body nourished and my mind sharp. I love starting the day with Feel Fit Protein or Meal Replacement Shake—quick, clean, and perfect for on-the-go. Whether you're running between meetings or making time for self-care, these essentials make wellness doable for everyone. Follow me on IG @loveraebloom Plus my fav feel good clothes. :)

Books need to be in the hands of children and in the laps of the adults who want them to learn. As a teacher going into her 21st year, I have seen that children who are read quality literature have a larger vocabulary and are better able to participate in classroom discussions and explorations.

Did you know? You can use the print-on-demand files from CreativeFabrica to start your very own sticker business! 🎨✨ Most files come with a full commercial license, meaning you're free to print, cut, and sell your own physical products—like stickers, labels, and decals. Just be sure to double-check the license included with each design. Your small biz dreams? Totally doable. 🛍️💕 Join with me here: https://www.creativefabrica.com/ref/980678/ I've also added some cute downloads from Etsy.

Step into a delightful tapestry of rhyme, rhythm, and vivid imagination. This board curates the essence of Julia Donaldson’s most beloved works—from mischievous mice and clever ladybirds to heroic worms and royal dragonesses. Whether journeying through dark woods with The Gruffalo, soaring on a broom in Room on the Broom, or cheering for Princess Pearl in Zog, each story brims with character, creativity, and heart. Celebrate her lyrical storytelling, memorable collaborations with illustrators like Axel Scheffler and Lydia Monks, and the laughter, lessons, and love that make these tales perfect for storytime and beyond.

With over 20 years in the classroom, my primary students love to celebrate Halloween! The colours, the experiments, the books! My Halloween collection takes up a huge shelf! Books are also a wonderful treat for the big day!

A nostalgic stroll through retro cinema reimagined for the little ones—or the adult collectors with a soft spot for illustrated tomes. This board invites you to relive the magic of your favorite '80s movies by transforming them into beautifully illustrated storybooks: think The Goonies as a family-friendly hardcover, School of Rock turned into a fun “classic illustrated storybook,” and that lovable extraterrestrial (E.T.) visiting your bookshelf in vibrant pages. Whether you're looking for a sweet way to share your childhood with your kids or just seeking collector-worthy gifts, this list is a playful blend of past and present that’s sure to charm both generations.

80s Movies I Have to Rewatch If you know me, you know I love a good 80s movie. So, I’m making it my personal mission to rewatch every single one on this list—one movie every weekend, starting in June. These are the films that defined a decade: the fashion, the soundtracks, the unforgettable moments. I’ll be posting my thoughts, reactions, and maybe even some themed outfits over on Instagram @loveraebloom. Follow along, and let’s relive the magic together. Oh my god, I’m so excited!!

From quick card battles to epic strategy showdowns, this collection brings together games that spark laughter, friendly rivalry, and memorable nights around the table. Whether you love classics, co-operative adventures, or modern favorites with a twist, these picks are perfect for family time, game nights with friends, or just unplugging from screens.

Kevin Henkes’ books are excellent for children because they gently explore many important parts of growing up. His stories help young readers understand feelings like friendship, courage, worry, and change in a simple, relatable way. They support children as they learn about the world and themselves.

Some stories end, but they never really leave you. This collection is filled with unforgettable reads—books that linger in your thoughts long after the last page, characters you carry with you, and themes that resurface when you least expect it. Whether they move you, challenge you, or change the way you see the world, these are the books you can’t shake—and wouldn’t want to.

I use these tools and supplies from Home Depot for all kinds of crafting projects! From paints and adhesives to hand tools and power tools, these are our go-to picks to help bring creative ideas to life. The more you craft, the more tools you need—and having the right supplies makes every project easier, smoother, and more fun.

A treasure trove of downloadable goodies for junk journal lovers! This board is packed with printable ephemera, vintage papers, tags, tickets, collage sheets, journal pages, and embellishments—perfect for your next creative project. Whether you're into shabby chic, grunge, botanical, or whimsical themes, you'll find printable resources to personalize your journals, planners, and art books. Start printing, cutting, and creating your own beautiful pages today!

My fur babies are everything to me.

✨ I’ve built a thriving sublimation image business using **Benable**—all for **under \$50 a year**! This website helps me organize and share my favorite finds, and through my affiliate links, I earn **more than double** what I pay for the subscription every year. 💸🙌 If you’re a creator or small biz owner, this tool is a game-changer!