Welcome to Bear and Bug Learning
1st Grade Literacy | Math | Classroom Management
Meet Valerie
(1st Grade Teacher & Teacher-Author)
I'm Valerie — a passionate, creative teacher, who thrives in the world of early elementary education! 🧠🎨✏️
I'm the type of teacher who lives for hands-on learning, phonics games, math centers, and making every lesson feel like an adventure. I love crafting activities that are simple, effective, and first-grader-approved. I love a good themed unit- whether it's for Earth Day, Community Jobs, or Holidays around the world. And I also love the daily tasks of the classroom like addition games and literacy centers that actually work. I have a heart for young learners, and a head full of classroom-tested strategies that make learning stick.
Bear and Bug was born out of my love for creating meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that actually work in real classrooms. Here on the blog, you’ll find practical tips, classroom-tested ideas, and resources designed to help you teach with confidence and creativity. Inspired by my passion for teaching 1st grade and my own children (my own bear and bug) I decided to create a space where I could share, connect, and support other 1st grade teachers so that all children can thrive.
As a passionate first grade teacher, I believe the classroom should be a place full of curiosity, connection, and joyful learning. Whether it’s students working together in community, discovering new skills, or sharing those unforgettable lightbulb moments—we’re here for all of it.
You’re not in this alone—so grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s build something great together. I am so excited to have you join the Bear and Bug community!
Valerie
