It was 1968 when Fred introduced us to his song, “What Do You Do with the Mad that You Feel.” That was over fifty years ago, and the messages of that song are as needed today as ever.
Fred knew how important it is to help children learn to deal with their angry feelings. But in his song he wasn’t saying, “Don’t be mad.” He was giving us a different message. He was telling us that anger is natural and normal. It’s part of being human.
Many Ways to Say I Love You
November 2023: Around this time of year, a number of years ago, I received in the mail a drawing from my 3-year-old granddaughter. It was sent from her child care center. At the top was a note she dictated to her teacher, letting me know that the scribbles, lines and circles said "I love you, Grandma Hedda."
October 2023: I recently talked with a teacher who was excited about a new learning center that she set up for the children. She called it the "Creation Station," and stocked it with recyclable "stuff" donated by families - boxes, egg cartons, packing material, plastic containers, and paper towel tubes.
September 2023: A gazillion times! Is that how many times you've sung Itsy, Bitsy Spider and Wheels on the Bus? I know it's not easy to keep finding the energy and enthusiasm to sing the same songs over and over again, but I hope you know how much you're giving children when you do.
Your financial support of the Institute helps us expand our initiatives and resources so that educators and children's helpers can continue to learn and grow from Fred Rogers' legacy. Thank you!