Wednesday, March 16, 2011

What to do, what to do...?




Often, I worry that I occasionally further confuse my little sponge-like brained friends.

Preparing for a scheduled tornado drill, I had all of my pumpkins nicely seated on the rug for a "serious-face" talk. We were discussing the urgency and importance of such drill and brainstorming appropriate behaviors. A little hand goes up in the air. [This child is one of my top five Super Special Friends.]

Super Special Friend: "What happens if when we are at a tornado drill... and there's a real tornado, not like the fake tornado drill... and then the fire alarm goes off?"

Me: Somewhat taken off guard. "Well, that's a great question and I will have to check into that."

SSP: Extremely concerned. "Yes, I do believe you should because I think we will be in some big trouble trying to make the right choice."

All other students: "Ooooooh" "Ahhhhh" "That is a GREAT question!" "That's a real tricky one."

SSP: "I'm very worried because if there is a real tornado, we should be inside. But, if there's a fire, we should be outside. But if we are outside because of the fire, we will get sucked up in the tornado."

Me: Struggling to regain control as their little imaginative minds wander with the possibilities. "Just stick close to me, and I will make sure you are safe."



Needless to say, the fire drill immediately following the tornado drill probably further confused my kids. Wonderful.

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Little Friends


A student may not remember what you taught them, but they will always remember how you made them feel. 

I am reminded of this often by the bountiful hugs, toothless wide smiles, "I love you, Ms. Dyke", and random love notes left on my desk (incorrect spelling, backward letters, and all). 

Everyday, I am welcomed at work my home-away-from-home by 20 bouncing, wide-eyed, chipper 6 year olds. They inspire me, teach me, enlighten me, and motivate me to return every day... to do everything all over again. 

I love my little friends.