I LOVE This School, Especially the Parents!
Today’s my day set aside to update the blogs.. what we’ve been doing curriculum-wise, where we’re going… but I have to say first, I LOVE THIS SCHOOL!
Ok, Yes, I’m the Director, AND the teacher… but I’m also a former helping parent. Over the past 12 years, I’ve seen some of the positives and the negatives of being in a parent co-op. Believe me, the positives far out-weigh the negatives!
Today I’d like to sing the praises of the parents at this school. I’ll be the first to admit that being in a co-op is not for everyone! Please don’t assume that only “stay at home moms” co-op! Not true! We have parents who work part-time, full-time, seemingly all the time… In general, here are some of the wonderful qualities the parents who come to RHCNS have:
1. They genuinely enjoy spending time with their children. Parents who come here know that the preschool years are precious and brief.
2. Our parents understand the value of educating the WHOLE child, not just the academic side! Yes, there is more pressure now in society to push the academics. What I learned in first grade (way back when…yes, I learned with Dick and Jane!) is now often pushed in preschool! Our parents understand the value of a child’s social growth. Remember: WE ARE EDUCATING CHILDREN FOR JOBS IN HONG KONG THAT DON’T YET EXIST! Who knows what technology will be available to them? They will still however, always need “people” skills! The need for relating well to others, sharing in conversations, speaking in a large group will not change.
3. The parents in a co-op appreciate the strength of family and community. I watch parents as they baby sit for each other, offer help, create a long lasting community of friends. I am honored to have as students the babes I once knew “in utero” and marvel at their big brothers and sisters that once sat on my lap!
To “my” parents: I often tell you how wonderful your children are, and how thankful I am that you share them with me. Today, I want to say that I think YOU are wonderful!
I’ve actually met other teachers who have said, “You have PARENTS in the classroom? How can you STAND it?” It’s a gift. They don’t know what they’re missing! You, your talents, your presence strengthen your child’s sense of belonging and importance. I LOVE the expressions of joy and pride they children have when they look at you helping in the class!
Because of our small size, (we are STILL the one room school house we’ve always been!) we can only offer certain hours and days. We’re a bit of a “dinosaur” in the world of ever-growing daycare centers and larger schools that can offer more options. I see us, however, as an oasis. A warm, loving place for parents like us who have the ability and desire to have their children in school for part of the day, and who know that the children learn through exploration, movement, discovery and play! (We know play is NOT a dirty word!) Unless you’re playing in the dirt, and that’s always a possibility here!
Thank you, thank you, thank you, I appreciate you all!