Five things I learned from teaching 5-year-olds
As an early childhood educator, I’ve had the chance to not only teach kids but also learn from them. With no further intro needed, dive into this list of five things I learned from teaching five-year-olds at a daycare.
1. Acting on impulse is always a bad idea
I find that children have the ability to move from emotion to emotion very quickly BUT always act on impulse. For example, one day, I was in the gym with my class, and another childhood educator, when I spotted child 1 playing hockey by himself. Child 2 saw the puck and tried to grab it. Child 1 hit the kid with the hockey stick. Child 2 cries and hit back. Child 1 cries. In this type of scenario, I always go through basic conflict resolution steps: assess the situation, apologize and find a solution. Ultimately, there’s always something that could’ve been done to prevent the situation in the first place.
How this can apply to your life: Think about all the times someone did you wrong. Now think about your reaction (the thing that only YOU are in control of). There’s no need to be shady or retaliate in any type of way. Other people’s actions remain powerless without your reaction. Let them show who they are to the world and be thankful for the lesson. Because in 2018, we have no time to entertain nonsense. Rise above and keep it moving.
2. Being silly is really fun
Working at a daycare means I get to hear original songs ranging from topics of butts, ice cream and dinosaurs. Sometimes the entire class somehow coordinates the song with a choreography as well (one that would put the High School Musical ‘Status Quo’ lunch scene to shame). It’s always a fun time and I join in whenever I can.
How this can apply to your life: Life is hard and sometimes what you spend the most time on isn’t really your ‘light’ or purpose. Allow yourself to take a break and be silly. Whether that’s cranking up the music and dancing around your room, being loud in public places or organizing a theme party with your closest friends, express yourself in ways you haven’t before. And most importantly–have fun!!
3. You should hug your parents more often
The one thing I always find heartwarming is when the kids run up to their parents and hug them when they are being picked up from daycare. It’s equally satisfying to see when parents are involved with their children and ask about their day.
How this can apply to your life: For those who still have their parents with them or people who love/raised them such as aunts, uncles, coaches and grandmothers, it’s important to recognize and appreciate the sacrifices, love and strength it took in raising you. A simple thank you, a token of appreciation or going out of your way to make their lives easier will go a long way.
4. Be brave even though you might fail
Kids don’t really have a great radar when it comes to sensing dangerous things (because they haven’t learned what risk is yet). Sometimes, they miscalculate their actions and get hurt. On the other hand, sometimes they don’t bother to take a chance because they’re scared.
How this can apply to your life: Have you ever stopped yourself from raising your hand to ask a question? Standing up for yourself? Negotiating a raise? If you can relate, maybe what’s stopping you from reaching the next level in your career, love life or overall growth is the fear of the unknown/outcome. But in life, you need to take a chance even if the end result isn’t positive or doesn’t go your way. At the end of the day, you’ll be satisfied with yourself just for trying.
5. You should always find time to play
The number one job for kids is playing. Even in school, a place for education, children are allocated a time to play. I strongly believe that if adults did the same, they would feel happier and less stressed.
How this can apply to your life: Similar to the point I made in lesson #2, you need to find time to enjoy life the way you want to. Obviously, this might not be possible every day, but I believe taking time for your personal happy-meter is an essential part of self-care.
Which lesson do you agree with the most and why? Let me know in the comments below!
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