A child lagging behind the class because they need extra time to complete their work.
A child crying because they were given one choice and not the other – the one they wanted – for lunch in the cafeteria.
Friends one minute and not friends the next – the feelings and emotions that are real, raw, and on the surface.
A book box, bottom collapsed from the weight of great reading materials, its contents strewn across the room.
Excitement over a book, or a moment, or simply a story they really want to share – right now.
Asking to use the bathroom at the most inopportune time.
A shoelace that needs tying (and is in a knot) when the bell rings and the buses wait for no child.
It goes on. And on. And on.
When I feel my frustration rising to the surface, when I feel like it is simply too much – the juggling of actual teaching of academics and the teaching of social and self-help skills – I ask myself the question: What would I want my child’s teacher to do in this situation? And I stop. And I look at that child as if they were mine.
This question grounds me but it is also slowly chipping away at me. The responsibility is great, as is my passion. I am finding, however, that my energy is not equal to these two.
Shoes On The Wrong Feet 
Ou, dear! So good post this morning from you! Specially after last night parent evening, when I understand that my child is so naughty that he is not ready for academic knowledges yet! Be that teacher who teaches not just maths and literacy, but little hearts!
I am glad it was a good read for you – and thank you for the well worded encouragement. 🙂
I just had a call with a girlfriend about a week ago. She’s in her first year of teaching special ed. Between that call and your post, I so wish there were something I could do or say … but time and hearts will tell, I suppose.
It is much harder than I ever imagined – so many moving parts, new information, and emotions. Never enough time or energy.
Your empathy is great! You have a marvellous attitude. I’m sorry to hear that you’re so tired, though. 😦 I like to think that as things settle down, and with a holiday coming, you might get to recharge your batteries and feel better.
I hope you are right about getting to recharge. I do need a break (although I know that I will probably used a good chunk of it trying to catch up/get ahead). I am struggling with that balance piece – time for me, as well as for my students.
First year teaching is so exhausting. I hope you find ways to keep practising self care in the midst of parenting and teaching.
Thank you. I am having a hard time with that life balance piece. I am aware of it and working toward carving out time for myself. The weekend morning walks with the dog are very helpful.
I haven’t read yours (or any) blog for so long (where does free time go…?) – I left you just starting out in your teacher training, and I return to find you all done and dusted with a fabulous job (and admittedly great responsibilities to manage)! Well done, it’s really great. Hard work I’m sure, but I’d be so happy to know that Alpine Boy’s teacher looks at him in the same way as you look at your protégés. Keep it up! xxx
Well hello there! I hope you and your family are doing well. I have not done much blog reading (or writing for that matter) in a while either. I did pop over to your site a couple times in recent past wondering about you.
Yup, my life has been busy, with lots of good changes. Time does fly by – I can’t believe my year of school went so fast and now here I am, teaching my very own class. 🙂
aw nice to be missed! I’m starting my new year’s resolutions early and plan on blogging lots more now (ie now that I have more kids and more hours of work and much less time.,..!)
Well done, I’m really happy for you, long may it continue! xx