Dawn Morris

Moms Inspire Learning offers children's book recommendations and other simple resources and strategies to inspire lifelong learning, reading, and leading.

After practicing public and private accounting for more than 8 years, and having two amazing children along the way (I call them "StrawberryGirl" and "GreenGuy" within this blog), I attended graduate school and completed my Master of Arts in Childhood Education. Even though I had worked hard to become a licensed CPA and to build a successful accounting career, I decided that I could add more value to society as a classroom teacher.

It was during my first few years of parenthood that I started to think about changing careers. After giving birth to my second child, I was lucky enough to be able to stay at home for a couple of years. During that time, I found that my focus had shifted to reading with, and informally teaching, my own children. I became an active PTA volunteer, and was always researching the best programs, nursery schools, products, and literature for kids. Much time was spent at the local library, and I taught each of my children to read at the age of five. I knew I had unique knowledge that would enable me to teach other children successfully.

After four years of observing, student teaching, and working in public schools, however, I found that the increasing demands being placed upon elementary school educators often make it impossible for them to teach in the meaningful way they want to. The current emphasis on standardized testing in America makes it an uphill battle for even the most respected teacher to promote a love of learning and critical thinking.

Parents need to know that their informal roles as teachers are essential to the success of their children. If parents want their children to become lifelong learners, then they need to guide them and show them how much fun learning can truly be.

Busy mothers make decisions every day that have to power to change the world, starting right inside their own homes. Moms Inspire Learning will provide them with children's book recommendations, parenting tips, and other resources, which will make it easier for them to build a home of lifelong learners. The smallest of steps can make a world of difference!