Working with children can keep you young. They have such a wide eyed innocence as they view the world around them. The clouds fascinate them. The sound of a jet flying overhead alerts them to look up. How easy it is for us adults to become dulled to the amazing sights and sounds of the every day.
Children tend to be teachable. This past week I began a new role in my school as the teacher of a new class. The Mini-Mustangs are the youngest children who are just beginning their education. Our private school goes all the way up to high school but I get them when they're just beginning. And I love it!
Children love to learn new things. They are beginning to learn the alphabet, the letters and the sounds they make.
Children become engaged with the seemingly ordinary and love it. Every day items like bubble wrap fascinate them and at the same time help with their fine motor skills.
Children have unique personalities. I get to observe them at play. I see them gravitate towards things that interest them.
Children have great imaginations. They play out roles and take them seriously. This past week I've been served macaroni and cheese and every kind of pizza imaginable. I love how they use their voices and repeat what they hear at home.
I never imagined I'd be doing this at this point in my life. But God is so good! I find myself giggling and sharing their stories with my husband when I get home from work.
Although I changed classrooms mid year, how thankful I am to continue to interact frequently with my last class. I love their hugs and greetings as I see them on the playground. One little boy was so excited about his birthday and invited me to his Ninja Turtle celebration.
Remo suddenly paused and looked intently at me and asked, "Are you still Miss Debbie?"
I assured him that I was still Miss Debbie and that even though I wasn't in his classroom, he could always come to me and talk to me. He was satisfied with that explanation.
During this first week with the little ones, my quadriceps were so sore from squatting down to their eye level. But I'm getting used to it and I'm less sore. I get good exercise!
I've said it and written about it before. I am a life long learner. And I learn every day from children.
Good morning! Yes, your job is SUCH a good one. I'd love to interact with kids everyday. They really do say the sweetest things. And their innocence is what always attracts me too. I could watch them play for hours. Enjoy your day!
ReplyDeleteIt comes as no surprise that Jesus told us to be like children - to come to Him in childlike faith. Full of wonder, love, trust, and the freely-given heart.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad for your opportunity to be with these little ones. I know they will open your eyes wide to new things, and they will also be blessed by you!
Hi Debbie! God has certainly called you to a wonderful new place! It's very different from nursing, but you still can use your empathy and teaching gifts. Actually, they fit pretty well, don't they!
ReplyDeleteIt's good to know that you are still Miss Debbie no matter where you go. That's a great lesson to teach to little ones, and not so little ones. No matter where we're called, we are the same person God created. Just in a new field :)
Enjoy your day, sharing in the wonder with your students,
Ceil
Oh I had to giggle about the squatting down to get eye level...they will not only keep you young, but in shape. My sister-in-law is 72 and teaches young children in private school two days a week, and I know from observation it does keep you young. She started her job when she was in her late sixties.
ReplyDeleteI quote our three year old grandson all the time...just too precious. Enjoy!