Though I've only been home from college for a little over a week, I haven't stopped "going to school" since being back. I'm fortunate enough to have a mom who is a kindergarten teacher, who allows me to pursue my dream of one day having my very own classroom myself. Her school graciously welcomes me each day and lets me observe, help out, and teach, allowing me to gain vital experience in the classroom. Before coming to kindergarten, I assumed it would be boring, full of silly songs, unnecessary crafts, and too much playtime. I didn't realize how much work went in to the daily lesson plans and how imperative each and every activity was to the education of each child. I didn't realize so much of our knowledge was built off of what we learned in kindergarten. I had no idea just how much I would learn as a college freshman in a kindergarten classroom, but boy did I learn. Here are 6 things that being back in kindergarten taught me.
1. Communication is Key
Let's face it, 5-year-olds tend to get easily upset when others don't share, someone doesn't want to play with them, or when they don't understand something. I've seen more tears and drama than on an episode of "The Bachelor" in just one day at kindergarten, but by watching how the teachers control each situation, I learned a lot about the power of communication. The kids are encouraged to explain why they are upset or what occurred, and each child involved is given the chance to say their piece. Too many adults avoid confrontation or hide behind a phone in order to avoid saying what needs to be said. Kindergarteners don't.
2. Everybody Needs a Brain Break
Each day, the kids are given time outside to play and a "brain break" indoors where they will do a dance to get out some energy. I never realized how important this was. I forgot that little kids can't be expected to sit still and focus all day. And really, adults shouldn't be expected to either. I know that when I study for an exam, I have to give myself breaks or else I won't be able to focus.
3. Everything is a Lesson
I had no idea how meticulous planning a kindergarten lesson plan would be. Little did I know, each activity, no matter how big or small, is utilized specifically to teach some kind of a lesson. Whether it was a story that would teach a moral, a craft that would teach a math concept, or a worksheet that worked on grammar, everything in kindergarten has a purpose. We should remember to find the lesson in each thing we do in our own days as well.
4. Creativity is Important
Just like everyone needs a brain break, everyone needs a creative outlet as well. Art and music classes are vital to the growing and diverse education that a child needs. Don't skimp out on craft time or tell your child that music shouldn't be taken seriously. In my opinion, it's one of the most important parts of a
5. Kids are Your Best Friends
Kids can be brutally honest, but for the most
6. Do What You Love
Most people think I'm crazy for using my time off from school to go back to school. I am the farthest thing from a morning person yet being with a bunch of kids at 8 am doesn't bother me in the slightest. I am reminded day in and day out that working with kids is what I want to do when I get older. I am reminded of my passion each time I step foot in the classroom. Find what you love and don't be afraid to pursue it.