Monday, August 30, 2010

The "Sweetest" Thing


Since teaching children is the sweetest thing someone could experience I got Adam a little first day of school gift to remind him and I left this little note to explain each candy. Candy bar cards are awesome but this will sit nicer on his desk...and who can't appreciate two gallons of candy?

Happy First Day of School! I wanted to give you a little something to help kick this year off to a good start. At first glance, it may seem only like a couple candy jars but each represents something special. A little reminder to treat the kids with kindness

Jar #1:

To remind you of the variety of children you are sure to encounter this year. Each candy represents a group of students.

Nerds:

A little socially awkward, perhaps a little difficult to reach. Take care of these kids and remember that they are in extra need of compassion.

Sweetarts:

These are the kids, girls especially that will wrap you around their fingers. You will love them instantly. They will help you get through the difficult days because you are always able to count on them to be extra sweet.

Gobstoppers:

Yep, you’ll have these ones too. These are the ones who will halt productivity with their chatterbox mouths. Watch out for them, but don’t be too harsh…you married a gobstopper. Ask any of my teachers.

LaffyTaffys:

The jokesters, and class clowns. Sure, they may be annoying at times, but they are just trying to get a little attention. It may be negative attention, but they are harmless. Let them have their fun, but also let them know who’s boss.

Starburst:

Your star students! These are the ones who shine a little brighter than the rest. You can always count on them to ask the difficult questions, and be ready with lots of answers. With so much attention focused on struggling students, don’t forget about these shining stars! Help by challenging them to reach their full potential.

Air Heads:

Of course you can’t forget these ones. These are the ones that are so mesmerized by the LaffyTaffys and Gobstoppers that they forget to pay attention and might need extra reminders. Again, have patience with them. Use differentiated learning to keep them on task. Repeat instructions on an individual basis when you can.

Of course there are also students who are not represented in this candy mix. They are the ones with broken hearts and broken homes. They may be bullies, they may be bullied. They are the ones you need to love the most. It will be hard, but pray for the strength to love them just the same.

As you can tell, this jar holds quite a variety of students. Wouldn’t it be boring if there was only one kind? You may be tempted to pick out your favorites (like me with the peanut butter M&M’s among the Hot Tamales at your mom’s house) but enjoy each one for who they are. Like children, some candy may be too hard, others too soft but enjoy them for their respective qualities.

Jar #2:

To remind you that teaching is sweet

Butterfingers:

Everything in teaching is theory. Because of this (and the fact that you are only human), you are bound to make mistakes. Learn from them and move on. The lessons you learn from making these mistakes are sweet reminders that we can try again.

Snickers:

When you do stumble and make mistakes, learn to laugh at them. Don’t take yourself too seriously. The kids appreciate someone who is honest and open with a sense of humor. I love the sound of your laugh so laugh loud and often.

Twix:

For those golden teaching moments (check out the wrapper). Sometimes the best learning happens be’twix’t the lines. Take every opportunity to increase comprehension and understanding. The sweetest moments in teaching happen when you see the light go on in your student’s eyes. The twix are for big golden moment. For small moments, refer to the Rolos and Reeses Peanut Butter Cups.

Kisses:

Teaching is hard. It is emotionally and physically exhausting. When you feel at your lowest, refer to the kisses. They are from Hannah and I. These kisses are for all your hard work and dedication to your profession and your family. We love you more than we can say and we appreciate all you do for us. I love you so much!

Good luck and have fun!

3 comments:

Bea said...

Way to go for love and support and encouragement. A very original idea.

Georgia said...

This post brought tears to my eyes. What a very, very "SWEET" way for Adam to return to the classroom. You are brilliant to come up with such a great back-to-school gift.

Stephanie said...

You are so cute Melissa! I love that!