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A Teacher’s Insights on Parenting
As an adult, it’s hard to recall what it feels like to have limitations. If I crave a cupcake or some ice cream before dinner, there’s no one to stop me. If I decide to wander out of my room after bedtime, no one will question my motives. Reaching adulthood is liberating, but it also makes it easy to forget the world of rules and boundaries that children navigate daily.
While I may not be a parent in the traditional sense, I’ve taken on a parental role as a middle school English teacher. Many might shudder at the thought of stepping into a room filled with 30 preteens, and honestly, I can’t blame them. The eye rolls and dramatic hair flips can be overwhelming! However, my experiences have taught me a lot about kids—insights that might even surprise their own parents. Here’s what I’ve learned:
- Kids Are Scared
If you’ve ever asked a 13-year-old to speak in front of their peers, you know they’d rather do just about anything else. I spent a year puzzled why no one wanted to help me pass out papers, only to realize it’s because they didn’t want to be the focal point while everyone else sat and stared. Life can be intimidating, and it’s our job as adults to ease those fears. When kids come home after a day of hiding their true selves, they want to express themselves freely. Encourage them to embrace their individuality and chase their dreams without fear of judgment. - Kids Want Parental Support
When a child neglects their homework, they often put on a brave face for their friends. Behind that facade, however, lies worry and regret. They constantly ponder their parents’ feelings about them—questions like, “Are they proud of me?” and “Will they forgive me?” It’s crucial that the answer to both is yes. - Encourage Creativity
Kids are some of the most imaginative beings on the planet. For instance, when my young niece declared we were off to space to see the stars, I couldn’t help but smile at her vivid imagination. It’s essential to nurture this creativity. Ask them about their ideas and let them know that their aspirations are valid. Unfortunately, as we grow up, we learn to distinguish between reality and fantasy, but maybe we should strive to retain a little of that creativity and see what unfolds. - Kids Have a Tendency to Lie
At some point, children learn that telling little lies can be easier than facing the truth. I’ve seen teens become so entrenched in their fabrications that they almost believe them to be true. It’s essential to address these lies—not with anger or disdain but with understanding. Help them see that honesty can be liberating, and there’s always a way to navigate through the truth together. - Kids Need Guidance
Life is one big puzzle, and kids are still figuring out how to put it together. They often need more help than we do to find reassurance that everything will turn out fine. Sometimes, they may not even know how to ask for assistance, which can make a teacher or parent’s role quite challenging.
Though I’m not a parent myself, I understand the struggle and the sleepless nights that come with raising a child. Balancing work and family can be tough, and the guilt of feeling inadequate often looms large. But if you strive each day to understand your child better, accept them for who they are, and forgive their mistakes, you’re doing an amazing job.
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Summary
In summary, being a teacher gives unique insights into childhood that can aid parents. Kids often feel scared, crave support, and possess immense creativity, but they also struggle with honesty and need guidance. Understanding and embracing them can pave the way for a healthier relationship.