Summer is always an interesting time of year for teachers. The world at large thinks we are on a true vacation; lounging mindlessly at the pool, watching the surf roll in and be swept back out again, or even just relaxing with a good book.
Teachers realize that ‘time-off’ is never really a luxury we fully take advantage of; willingly. We are always thinking about our students, ways to make instruction better and more meaningful, and especially how are we ever going to set up our classroom!!! The books we read are about Guided Reading, Classroom Management, or Mathematics in today’s' classroom. This summer I have spent countless hours 'playing' on an ipad trying to weed my way through the plethora of apps available.
Don't get me wrong... not having to change out of my pajamas has been a definite bonus. (Realizing the waistband on my slacks are just a bit extra snug from not wearing my 'teacher uniform' for 8 weeks does take its toll.) Drinking coffee without little ones asking me 'can I see your coffee?', 'that smells funny', or pretending to sip it while I am on the opposite side of the room helps make that morning cup a bit more relaxing.
I do however miss my kids terribly. Their sweet little faces, high pitched giggles, wide eyes when I read a good story, oh the list goes on and on. Although I would like to full heartedly say I hope they are reading, writing and counting everyday. I have a confession. If I had to choose, I hope they are swimming, riding their bikes, catching fireflies past their bedtimes, and watching funny movies cuddled up on the couch with their families or better yet with some friends on the pullout couch!
I know their families can find time for the academics; they are very creative and will have some exciting ways that entice the kids to learn without realizing it! Childhood goes by so quickly and those innocent, precious moments are meant to be had, explored, loved fully and treasured! It will be my job to think about all those activities and how to help them feel them in their hearts all over again, connect them to new learning, and make them excited the next year to want to explore what is in that ocean, why do lightning bugs ‘light up’? And exactly how many feet, yards or even miles they can ride that bike, how fast and want to count their heartbeat.
Oh, summer is a wonderful time for all. Let me just kick back with my coffee and think about it, just a little bit more while it is still July!
