Monday was just another monday. I woke up tired from the weekend (even though I had a full 9 hours of sleep on saturday night--thank goodness). I dressed and rushed to work as usual. We started the day with the normal monday morning powwow and set up shop for the kiddies to enjoy.
After the first class I stepped out of my normal grogginess and realized my job makes me happier than it ever has before. My job at the New York Kids Club as a coach has opened my world to little ones, their spirits, and their intelligence. A few weeks ago I realized in order to teach a child and expect their respect, you must love them unconditionally. You must remember what makes them smile, what makes them nervous, and what pushes them. After this light bulb turned on, my life as a coach has changed. I already knew the curriculum, so now it was time to teach with emotion. Last week I noticed certain "problem" children responding to me differently. I was more effective, I showed them more love, and they lovingly obeyed (most of the time). This week I was greeted with hugs and I shared that love back. I explained my new thoughts with another coach and we both realized it would be very difficult at the end of the year to let these kids go (not knowing who we will see again or not). Being a teacher is not only sharing your knowledge and discipline, but more so GIVING your love and not expecting anything in return.
It must seem easy for me to say this since I don't have to "put up" with the same children all day long through tantrums and potty messes and restless nights, but I can only imagine how incredible it must be to be a real mother, not just an auntie or coach or babysitter. I sure have a lot more to learn, but I must say I've got a good start. I truly love these children. I love my job. It brightens each and every day of my life and it feels good to finally have direction in my life.
6 comments:
That is great! What a rewarding job! Life is so much better when you have a job you love!
Ciara, I love your posts. So happy that you are where you are and doing what you are. You will be an awesome Mom some day. Isabel is blessed to have you as an auntie and I'm grateful.
You may not yet be a "real mother" but it sounds like you have figured out something that takes most "real mothers" a long time to figure out.
Ciara, it sounds like you're ready for kiddos...:)
Yay! I'm so glad that you like your job! We're so glad you're in the city!!!
Welcome to teaching . . . and motherhood. It's amazing isn't it? It looks as though you are doing well in that big, big city.
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