I love teaching kindergartners in Sunday School. I love seeing how their brains work and how they learn. I cannot wait to see how their creativity will show itself each week. I also like to collect the things they say. Here are a few things that I’ve heard from my "new" group (since August)…and maybe what we can learn from them. (Yes, all of these are actual quotes.)
Child (after I took this photo): "You better not put that on Facebook."
Technology is a part of our lives now. I can use it to create teaching resources and incorporate it in different ways to enhance learning. I can use it to connect to other leaders, to help improve my teaching, and to stay connected to parents.
Boy (into the toy telephone): "You are NOT my girlfriend."
Keep clear boundaries. We have a great time in my classroom, and kids get lots of choices. But we do have some ground rules that make learning more fun and accessible for everyone. Simple, clear guidelines that are consistently reinforced help kids feel secure and ready to learn.
Boy: "I have my socks in my back pocket."
Me: "Why are your socks in your pocket and not on your feet?"
Boy: "I wanted my feet to be comfortable while I was here."
Create a learning environment that is comfortable and fits your learners. Be ready to adjust and adapt as needed. Be flexible and prepared to change or regroup if things aren’t going as you thought.
Child: "I’m going to make a coffee split. That’s a banana split but you pour coffee on it."
Take chances. Try new things. Don’t be afraid to try something a little unusual. Sometimes those surprises make the best learning experiences.
Child: "If you hold a little mirror up to the big mirror, then you see another mirror."
Notice the small things (and sometimes the obvious things). Pay attention. You can learn a lot by just noticing what’s happening. And, as you notice them, celebrate them. Nothing is too small for a celebration!
What are some things you’ve heard kids say? What are lessons your kids are teaching you?
