Rachel Holden

The books I love to read over and over again!

Sharing my actual buys! And my friends when they let me!!! Love my supporters!!!

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.

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.

I have loved Michael's Arts &Craft Store since the first day it opened up in Canada. I can not get enough glitter for any season but Michael's fits the bill! Sparkle and shine for Christmas!

A real life story of what goes into my Amazon cart...as told by a midlife woman! Teacher, dog-mom, step-mom, partner, daughter, sister, friend. Yes...I'm all that! And a bag of chips...if I can buy them on Amazon. ;)

For the collector, the pop culture lover, the one who has everything! These are delightful pieces of nostalgia and fandom.

One of the delights (during appropriate times 😅) of teaching grade one is that every year, you get to learn about the latest toys. You also learn that the bigger the box doesn't mean the most engagement. Children want space to be imaginative. Children want to be free to have fun. Children want human interaction and attention. These are also all needs. Be patient and choose toys that matter. There isn't one thing here I wouldn't give as a gift... except the slime. I don't need to be cool. Have yourself a merry little Christmas!

For me, scrapbooking was an outlet to be creative. I used to share them on some of the biggest websites for Scrapbooking! Now, scrapbooking is still a way to express myself and be reflective on my life... to see all the reasons to be thankful for if life. Michael's is definitely my go to! Click like and save if you think I should start a scrapbooking online group!

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!

Dog walking is a delight! Romanticize your dog walks. Sigh. I love my dogs with all my heart! They are my world, my forever babies. But I love getting ready to go out with them. As seen on Instagram @loveraebloom

Eek! My cutest picks for dressing up all season! These choices will get you through Halloween week because Halloween is on a Fri-yay! But if you love Halloween, then you can start wearing these now!!! Bring on the pumpkins! I only post things I have bought, will buy or are already sitting in my cart. Shopaholic? Stop that! Besties!

This board is all about the real ways I stay active — no gym required. Everything here is beginner-friendly, focused on moving at home or outdoors. Simple, doable, and designed for anyone who just wants to feel good by adding more movement into everyday life.

✨ Step inside my virtual closet! ✨ This is where all my fashion daydreams live — the outfits I’d wear if I had an endless wardrobe, the cozy pieces I’m obsessed with, and the staples I keep coming back to. Think of it as the digital version of me playing dress-up, curating styles that make me feel confident, comfy, and a little bit fancy. 👗👟👜

September always feels like a fresh start for me. It’s a time to reset, settle into cozy routines, and bring a little more intention into everyday life. This board is full of the things I’m fixated on this month—wellness staples, classroom must-haves, self-care favorites, and little cozy vibes that make September feel special.

Downtown St. John’s is full of charm—colorful row houses, a bustling harbour, cozy pubs, and romantic views from Signal Hill. It’s the heart of Newfoundland, and proof that this place really is for lovers. You'll find something new every time to visit. The people are the nicest. You'll feel right at home.

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. :)

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!

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!