It Takes a Big Heart to Help Shape Little Minds

Today marks the end of Teacher Appreciation Week. I am sure, without a doubt, that this year has been the most challenging in any teacher's career. What we are going through in the education system is unprecedented. This blog post, though, is a particular shout out to one particular teacher, and, no, it isn't one of my teachers, although I could blog about many I have had. This is about the teacher that lives in my house with me. This school year, 2019/2020, was my daughter's first year as a teacher in the 2 year old class at her Dayschool. She has done an amazing job this year from the beginning in the way she made her room visually exciting (Most of the decorations were created and drawn by her), the clever crafts she did with her class of 8 2 year olds, and most importantly the love she shows each child every day. Teaching a 2 year old is not an easy job, and it is not for the faint of heart. If you are a parent, think back to the days when your child was 2 and walking and everything they were getting into, and, oh yes, potty training. Now imagine you have 8 of those little munchkins! Yeah, I thought so. I'm not saying there aren't days that are super hard for Georgi and nothing seems to go right, but she's there for those kids every day. When all of this Corona Virus stuff hit, it was a real game changer. The school closed, but the teachers still needed to provide something for their classes. That's a little bit easier if you have a child older than 2. Long distance or remote learning makes a little more sense. Two's thrive on hugs and movement and face to face contact. Georgi stepped up to the plate and poured through Youtube videos of songs to match her theme for the week, made up Grab Bags with materials and ideas for the parents to do with their children while everyone was at home. She sent out dance party suggestions, and even had me guest star on a video link to Youtube as Mother Goose on her week about Nursery Rhymes. She cares deeply for each child. Even if she wasn't my daughter, I would be thrilled if she were teaching my child or grandchild. It's a hard thing to let go of that precious cargo and trust someone else to take care of them. Georgi earns that trust every day! She dries tears, and fixes boo-boos, acts silly, and yes, also teaches them how to be decent little humans because that's part of loving too! These 8 little people will grow into some great students, but better yet kind people, and if they don't it won't be because they didn't have a great foundation. Happy Teacher Appreciation Week, Georgi. You deserve so much more than thanks!