Once, before my life revolved around building Lego towers, crafting cozy forts, and belting out Taylor Swift tunes (with questionable pitch) in the kitchen with my children, I was a dedicated teacher. My days were filled with reading groups, writing workshops, math activities, and joyful singing (again, off-key) with my little ones on the Circle Rug. I taught kindergarten, and every moment was a treasure.
Back then, I lacked the experience of motherhood, which allowed me to devote all my energy to my classroom and students. I thought I had a solid grasp on education, but now, if I were to step back into the classroom, I know I would be a far more effective teacher.
As a mom, my perspective on education has shifted dramatically. I view school through the eyes of my own children and the parents of my former students. If I returned to teaching, I might not be better at planning lessons, but I would understand that each student is someone’s precious child, which would change everything.
Here’s how I would approach teaching differently today:
Open Communication with Parents
When I was teaching, I sent home a weekly newsletter with a simple invitation for parents to reach out anytime. I thought that was sufficient communication. Now, as a parent, I realize that school can feel like a big mystery. I often bombard my kids with questions about their day, eager to know every detail.
If I were in the classroom now, I’d send out daily emails highlighting the day’s events and including conversation starters to help parents engage with their kids about school. I’d create a Facebook group to foster connections among parents, helping to build friendships outside of school. Plus, I’d share pictures and videos of the kids (with their parents’ consent, of course) so they could see their little ones in action.
Understanding Kids’ Emotions
I always recognized that small issues can be monumental to young children, but it wasn’t until I became a mom that I truly understood this. My kids have come home upset over seemingly trivial matters, and it’s made me wish I could have been there to offer a comforting hug and a pep talk.
As a teacher, there were moments when I dismissed a child’s worries as unimportant. Now, I know how vital it is to validate their feelings and offer support. I would strive to create an environment where every student felt heard and cared for, ready to offer hugs and encouragement when needed.
Prioritizing Hygiene
While it may seem obvious, I didn’t always insist on handwashing when students returned from recess. As a mom, I’ve witnessed firsthand how dirty my children’s hands can get, which makes me cringe at the thought of how unclean they might be at school.
If I were teaching today, I would ensure that my students washed their hands regularly, not just before meals, but whenever they came in from outside.
Monitoring Lunch Time
During my teaching days, I would drop my students off at the cafeteria without checking to see if they had enough time to eat. Now, I’ve seen my own child return home with a full lunchbox because he didn’t have time to eat in the noisy cafeteria.
As a teacher, I’d make it a point to observe lunch periods and look for students who might need extra time to finish their meals, ensuring they had a chance to refuel for the afternoon.
Compassion for Families
Many of my former students brought significant challenges from home into the classroom. I remember feeling frustrated with parents who seemed disengaged, not realizing the immense struggles they faced.
Now that I’m a parent, I have a profound respect for those who manage to send their kids to school despite overwhelming obstacles. I would approach each family with compassion and understanding, recognizing their unique circumstances without judgment.
Keeping Promises
Kids are incredibly perceptive and remember everything. As a teacher, I sometimes made promises that I couldn’t keep due to the busy nature of the day. However, as a parent, I understand the importance of following through on commitments.
If I were teaching now, I would ensure that if I promised a child a special opportunity, I would keep that promise, treating it with the seriousness it deserves.
Teaching is undoubtedly one of the most demanding professions, and I empathize with my fellow educators who juggle countless responsibilities. However, I also recognize that every child in my class is someone’s beloved little one. If I were to teach again, I would strive to treat each of those children the same way I would want my own kids to be treated.
For more insights on navigating parenthood and education, check out this insightful resource about what to expect during your first IUI.
In summary, motherhood has profoundly influenced my approach to teaching. I now prioritize open communication with parents, recognize the importance of emotional support, emphasize hygiene, ensure students have enough time for lunch, show compassion for families, and keep my promises. These changes reflect my deeper understanding of each child’s unique needs and the incredible responsibility of shaping their early educational experiences.