In September when I was told I would be completing my practicum in kindergarten I was nervous to say the least. I have had the opportunity to teach every single grade except kindergarten. I had a lot of preconceived notions about what teaching kindergarten would actually look like. I was worried that the job was just a “glorified babysitter” as many people STILL believe it is. But I’m here to tell you that it is the most challenging and rewarding grade you could ever have the opportunity to teach. I fell in love with everything about kindergarten, they are so young, eager, and curious to learn about the world around them.
Some people think that anyone can teach kindergarten and I’m here to tell you that you are very mistaken. Teaching kindergarten is an art where there is so many moving pieces everyday. Firstly, you are the only adult responsible for the care and education of 21 5 year olds, 5 days a week. As teachers we are: performers, entertainers, educators, healers, role models, nurses, athletes, comedians, and much more. We are parents and students first experience of school and being away from home for a long period of time. We provide a safe and nurturing environment where students feel safe to come and learn. We teach our kindergartners: the curriculum, how to read and write, how to use school supplies, how to wait their turn, how to stand in a line, and much more. In my opinion, the most important skills we teach are life skills that students will have with them forever. These skills are the building blocks and foundation to life long learning. These include: how to be a good friend, sharing, washing your hands, manners, how to use zippers, buttons, and ties etc. These skills are what makes a person an all around nice human being.
My time with my kindergarten class made me want to be a better teacher. They challenged me at every step of the way and taught me things that I never knew about myself. We laughed, we cried, we asked questions, we were curious, and we learned about the world, together! They taught me to be patient and to know that everyone is different and to not only embrace their differences but to celebrate it for all to see. To challenge each of them to their full potential and teach them based on their learning style and interests.
In the past year I have grown more as a person than the other 26 years of my life and I have my students to thank for that. I hope in the future no matter what grade I teach I can continue to be a positive role model and make a positive impact in students lives.
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