That is how I would describe my first elementary classroom experience as an adult.
I've been one of those people who has remained on the fence in the stay home vs working mom debate. It appears to me some women would go crazy at home and need the benefits of a professional life. I get that. However, after spending 2 hours in Jayla's class yesterday, I am 100% affirmed in my stay-at-home-mom role.
There is so much to teach. Things that take quantity time. Things can not be neatly fit into a compartmental hour in my schedule at the end of each day labeled "time with my children." Teaching as the need arises. Soothing as the aches occur. Explaining as understanding is lacking. Discussing as questions arise. Training as life happens. Being watchful for subtle changes in them. Mere presence, which to a child says "I'm important."
I want them to have every advantage, and I'm not talking about sports and piano lessons. I'm really more concerned with character development....things like gratitude, perseverance, sportsmanship, discipline, dealing with heartbreak, how to esteem self and others, sacrificial giving, temperance and moderation, pursuit of passion and proper restraint....the list goes on and on. If those lessons come by way of participation in activities, great. The bottom line is no one else will care enough to invest in them the way I will. It is not the teacher's responsibility, and she doesn't have time for it. The guidance counselor's "friendship groups" are not nearly enough. This is my calling. I'm glad for the opportunity to do this job without the distraction of employment. Today, one of the main blessings I'm counting is the ability to fulfill the role of full-time teacher....pro bono.
Deuteronomy 6:6-8 “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.
