Teacher: *picks up clump of hair from the floor* “do you have scissors in your pocket?”
Kid 1: “No!”
T: “Are you cutting your hair at home?”
1: “I’m not cutting it!”
T: “Then why does it keep falling out?”
Kid 2: “Maybe it’s tired!”
This morning’s craziness began in Mrs. Bacchus’ classroom as Mrs. Cohen had another regular volunteer come in. Students hadn’t even arrived yet, and I already felt overwhelmed by the immensity of the tasks of the day. The tasks included the usual aiding of tasks, soothing their scared souls when they see a beetle (although, to be fair, I was and still am terrified of bugs too), and making copies of papers on the machine (which I fixed yesterday when it jammed), but I faced two new challenges today: birthdays and story-time.
Many teachers, particularly those who work with young students, will agree that birthdays, while fun, are stressful because when there’s a birthday, you’re sure to find kids hyped up on sugar-filled, brightly-colored, annoyingly massive cupcakes. One student was one bite into his chocolate cupcake when he suddenly remembered that he hates chocolate. Another knocked his cupcake to the floor and cried when it came back lacking in icing while the hot pink glob sat staining the tile floor. Another was prepared to wipe her sticky, blue fingers all down her white shirt had I not stepped in. Many of them got more cupcake on their faces and fingers than in their mouths. To every teacher that had to deal with me bringing in cupcakes, I am so sorry.
Story-time taught me one of the most valuable teaching lessons: don’t ask kids rhetorical questions. I learned this while reading Officer Buckle and Gloria to them. As it was the end of the day, many of the kids sat fidgeting and began making a scene. Silly me mistakenly asked them, “do you want me to keep reading or no?” While many of the kids responded with an enthusiastic “YES!”, one of the students bluntly said “no.” Mrs. Cohen was less impressed, but I sat there laughing my butt off before continuing the story.
Overall, today was just as exhausting and exciting as yesterday, and I am still thrilled to be returning tomorrow. They haven’t scared me off… yet.
Note about photos: since I am working with children, there is an issue regarding parental consent; therefore, the photos I am able to publish will most likely not include any of the students to avoid any liability issues. This also means some of my posts may not include photos if it’s not possible to get any without the kids.
