Not a normal day: Life in kindergarten
Summers off, spring break, winter break. The life of a teacher, right? Not so much. In all honesty, kindergarten teachers, how do you do it? I took a day off and volunteered in a kindergarten class today. My daily routine was definitely disrupted. The kids wore me out!
The day began at 8:15; the bell rang and we were off. The first thing I noticed were the teachers -- are they that young or is this Gen-X’er just getting old? What should I expect? What was I going to do? I entered the classroom and my teacher had a plan. First on the list - cornbread and 18 students. It must have been my look. She asked me several times if I could handle it. I just nodded my head, but between you and me, I’m cornbread challenged. Gulp.
I took my first group of four students, talked about how the pilgrims went to Wal-Mart for Jiffy mix (kidding), then started baking. Hey, I hit my stride. An hour later and the cornbread was done. The commons was a tad smoky but the cornbread was ready.
Time to go home, right? Wrong…it’s recess Mr. Knox. Freeze tag or bust! Here is where I needed a cup of coffee or a shot of whatever the students were having because I was fading. Recess over! Is it break time yet? Nope. Smartboard time. Yes, I said smartboard. No chalk dust or erasers for this generation. It’s the coolest thing ever. The kids pressed on Bob Lindmeier's headshot and the smartboard went to Google where we had our weather lesson. This cris-cross applesauce parent was memorized. Again, SO COOL.
Lunch Time! Whew, a little rest? No. Capri Sun pouches to be poked, applesauce lids to be removed and milk cartons to be opened. Teachers, the principal and yours truly – all hopping around. Lunch Over! Another quick recess and it’s finally rest time. I needed it. I’m done both mentally and physically. Spent. I look up and it isn’t even noon. Boy these kindergarteners are working hard.
The afternoon was reading, math and a generational internal laugh when a student who saw a typewriter thought it was a piano. Once we explained it was a typewriter they wanted to know what it did. After a quick breath we ended with a kindergarten Thanksgiving feast.
Holy cow. It was a full day. I’m drained. I have a renewed respect for those working in education. Summer breaks, spring vacation – all deserved. Thank you teachers!
Steve Knox was born, raised and landed back in Janesville. He encourages you to participate as he writes on Janesville and beyond as this Generation X guy supports his Janesville mission, global vision. Steve is a community blogger and is not a part of Janesville Gazette staff. His opinion is not necessarily that of the Janesville Gazette staff or management.
Nov 24, 2009 at 11:58 p.m.
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Are we having fun yet? Yes is the answer, how great you could experience a day in the life of.Now you know why your kids are so tired when they come home they need some quiet time too, a little snack some toonies awww life is good.
Nov 24, 2009 at 11:05 p.m.
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Thanks for the unique look at a day in the life. I am sure you enjoyed the day and the kids had fun too.
Nov 24, 2009 at 5:24 p.m.
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Thought that was tiring????? Try working in child care year round (52 wks) 8-10 hrs per day 5 days a week, at about half the pay, no where near the suport or supplies. NOW THATS TIRING!!!!!!
Nov 24, 2009 at 4:33 p.m.
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Enjoy it -- soon enough they are gone!
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