Hey guys, welcome back to Wait for it Wednesday!
I wanted to share something that as a mom or teacher I think is really important. This is my 24th Back to School Night so I’ve definitely refined my presentation over the years and last year I took a moment and just shared from my heart to the parents. After I did that I can’t even tell you how many parents stayed after to thank me with tears in their eyes.
All most parents want is reassurance that you will treat their child like your own, that you will love on them and have their back. So, I leaned against my counter and paused from my power point to just talk, parent to parent. I shared how I treat the classroom like a family and how their kids are like my kids. I told them that I will be their child’s biggest cheerleader while they are in my room ( and after of course ). I reminded them that their child is my priority and I want the best for them too. I told them that we don’t do put downs and that we are here to encourage one another. I reminded them too that sometimes siblings and parents get mad or frustrated with one another and we have to work through things and ask for forgiveness. As I looked around I saw parents sit a little more comfortably, I saw parents that came in ready to take notes and let’s be honest some even on the defensive if they had a previous bad experience with a teacher – all of a sudden their facial expressions changed. They smiled and nodded, they had tears in their eyes, I could see a look of relief come across their face.
Let’s face it – anyone can stand up at Back to School Night and share about curriculum and schedules with a power point there to guide them. But to be vulnerable and tell them straight up that you will LOVE on their CHILDREN. That’s truly ALL THEY WANT TO HEAR. They can look up the PE schedule on line, they can read a first day note. But….to hear from their child’s teacher that this person that their most prized possession spends most of their day with will love their kid unconditionally – that’s priceless my friends. It might seem a bit awkward at first but just do it, speak from your heart, share your passion, they will see it shine from you as you talk. They will leave happy, at peace and excited for the new school year. I promise you – it will help you have an amazing start to your year and you will be glad you did.
Let me know how you share from the heart with your parents in the comments, I can’t wait to hear and spread our love for kids across the world.
Happy teaching!
xoxo,
