I love watching children build friendships throughout the year. It's fun seeing the uniqueness of how Kindergarteners form friendships. Not only that, but their friendships can change from moment to moment. I witness daily the occurance of a child choosing quiet kids to line up and others yelling out "Pick me and I will be your best friend!" At times, if a child does not get their way, I hear the all too often saying of, "I'm not your friend anymore!" Friendships are a major part of a child's social and emotional growth in his/her early childhood years. It is definately a large part of my dealings with my students and I am careful to let each child be free to form their own friendships as well as allow them to learn from these early and important relationships.

Everyone loves being around positive people. As adults, I would say most of us prefer to be around people who are encouraging and positive rather than those that point out our mistakes and weaknesses. How much more valuable is it to spend time with a child and communicate to him/her the strengths you see in them?! It's ALWAYS easier to see others' weaknesses. Adults really aren't much different than children. The main difference is that they can take care of themselves much better and easier. The majority of adults can tie their own shoes, tell time, drive, and read. At the same time, we are very similar to children. Whether we are an elementary student, a lawyer, a nurse, or a coach we are always in a state of learning, of changing, and of growing.  It is an extremely powerful thing to be an adult who can speak positively over a child even when they make mistakes or seem to have a long ways to go. I believe a child's self-esteem is more important than their ability to learn math facts and literacy skills. As adults, you and I can have major impact on the children around us by speaking positive words that will motivate them and build their self-esteem! 

I never thought I would be a teacher! My parents were both teachers, so I wanted to do something different with my life. When I received my Counseling Degree, I had the opportunity to work with children who were in need of a positive role model. This experience, as well as a few others, was what birthed the desire in me to pursue my teaching certificate. I love telling children that their potential is limitless and their dreams really can come true. For me, there is nothing more valuable than to invest my life and time into the lives of children.