Before I immersed myself in the world of parenting—a world filled with Lego creations, fort-building adventures, and off-key sing-alongs to Taylor Swift—I was a dedicated teacher. My days revolved around structured reading sessions, writing workshops, interactive math activities, and, of course, joyful singing with “my” students on the Circle Rug. As a kindergarten teacher, I cherished every moment, even as I navigated through my youthful idealism and sometimes unrealistic expectations. I was passionate, driven, and fully committed to my classroom, as I didn’t have children of my own at the time. However, looking back, I realize that if I were to step into that classroom again today, my perspective would be profoundly different, and I would undoubtedly be a more effective educator.
Now that I am a mother, I perceive education through the lens of my children’s experiences and the perspectives of the parents who entrusted their little ones to me. If I were to return to teaching, I might not improve my lesson plans or instructional methods, but I would deeply understand each child as someone’s precious baby, and that insight would significantly influence my approach.
Here are some changes I would implement if I were teaching today:
Enhanced Communication with Parents
In my previous role, I sent home a weekly newsletter and offered my contact information at the bottom, believing that was adequate communication. As a parent now, I recognize the fog of uncertainty that can surround school life. I often greet my children with a barrage of questions: What did you do during free time? Who did you sit with at lunch? Did you finish your writing project? To bridge this gap, I would establish daily updates via email, highlighting the day’s activities and providing conversation starters for parents to engage with their children. Creating a Facebook group for parents would foster connections, allowing friendships to blossom outside the classroom. Additionally, I would share photos and videos of classroom moments (with permission), giving parents insight into their children’s daily experiences.
Acknowledging Children’s Feelings
While I understood that small issues could loom large in the eyes of young children, it wasn’t until I became a mother that I truly grasped this reality. I have witnessed my children return home burdened by feelings of distress from school. As a teacher, I may have overlooked students’ worries, dismissing them as trivial. However, if I were back in the classroom, I would adopt a more attentive stance, validating their concerns and providing comfort. I would actively seek out those children who appear to be holding back their emotions and offer support, including quick hugs and encouraging words.
Promoting Hygiene
A seemingly simple yet vital practice is ensuring children wash their hands. In my teaching days, I often overlooked this step after recess, assuming hand sanitizer sufficed. However, as a parent, I have seen how dirty my children’s hands can get, and I would prioritize handwashing in the classroom to promote health and hygiene.
Ensuring Lunch is Consumed
In my previous teaching experience, I would drop my class off in the cafeteria without checking on their lunchboxes or trays. Now, as a parent, I understand the chaos of lunchrooms and how easy it is for children to skip eating due to distractions. I would proactively check on students to ensure they had the opportunity to eat and, if necessary, provide additional time in the classroom for those who needed it.
Empathy for Students’ Backgrounds
Teaching in a low-income urban school, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by my students and their families. Many came from complex home situations filled with stress and instability. Reflecting on my past judgments of these parents, I now realize how difficult parenting can be, even under more favorable circumstances. I would approach each family with compassion and understanding, recognizing the obstacles they face and respecting their dedication to sending their children to school.
Keeping Promises
Children have remarkable memories and a keen sense of fairness. Empty promises can erode trust; as a parent, I have learned that following through is essential. If I were a teacher today and committed to an activity or event for a student, I would ensure I honored that promise, reinforcing trust and reliability in our relationship.
Though teaching is an incredibly challenging profession, each student in my care represents someone’s beloved child. If I were to teach again, I would treat these young learners with the same love and respect I wish for my own children.
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In summary, my journey into motherhood has profoundly reshaped my understanding of education and the needs of young learners. If I were to return to teaching, I would prioritize communication, emotional support, hygiene, nutrition, empathy, and the importance of keeping promises. These are essential elements that not only nurture a child’s development but also create a supportive classroom environment.
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