Once upon a time, I found myself teaching eighth graders. When I share this fact, I often encounter surprised expressions and exclamations like, “Yikes! How did you handle those emotional teens every day?” But the truth is, I thrived in that environment. Despite the challenges, there was a unique joy in navigating the complexities of their minds. These students could appreciate sarcasm and engage in meaningful discussions, making my daily grind exciting. Since stepping away from the classroom three years ago to focus on my children, I’ve missed that vibrant atmosphere. One day, I’ll be back. In the meantime, my time as a teacher imparted invaluable lessons about myself as an educator, colleague, and leader, while also giving me a crash course in parenthood from my students.
For many of them, I became a motherly figure once the lessons concluded. Each year, a few students would seek me out for guidance, a sympathetic ear, or just someone to confide in. To some, I was the only person they felt safe sharing their secrets with. Beyond my role as a teacher, I filled various positions for these kids. I affectionately referred to them as “my kids,” and the experience mirrored that of a parent. I instructed them, addressed misbehavior, provided support during tough times, and offered a shoulder to lean on when they needed it most. And while I celebrated the arrival of summer on the last day of school, I couldn’t help but shed a few tears as I watched “my kids” transition to high school, marking their growth.
After seven years of “training” with my students, I welcomed my first daughter. Here’s how my teaching experience equipped me for motherhood:
1. Understanding Attitudes
I dealt with my fair share of hormonal outbursts, disinterest, and the occasional eye-roll from my students. Their apathy during a lesson is akin to my child’s enthusiasm when I reach for the hairbrush. Managing a classroom of 28 13-year-olds has certainly prepared me for my toddler’s dramatic “NO” when I deny her a giant bouncy ball at the store.
2. Quick Thinking
Once, while delivering a lesson on Anne Frank, I realized I had forgotten a crucial component at home. Panic surged through me as I faced a classroom of expectant students. Instead of succumbing to embarrassment, I improvised and salvaged the lesson. This experience has been invaluable for moments with my 2-year-old, like when she’s set on visiting the park but a sudden downpour threatens our plans. I’ve learned to devise a Plan B on the fly or face the music.
3. Cultivating Patience
There were days when I felt an out-of-body experience while managing my students, resisting the urge to explode at their antics. Whether it was a class clown or constant interruptions during a test, I often had to dig deep to maintain my composure. This level of patience translates directly to my daily life with my two kids—let’s be real, there are moments where I need to channel my inner zen at least once an hour!
4. Repetition is Key
As a teacher, I often found myself saying, “Don’t forget, we have a test tomorrow!” only to hear a student exclaim, “A test today?!”. Now, as a mom: “Emily, please put the paint back on the table. No, back up on the table.” The cycle of repetition is endless. “How many times do I have to say this before it sinks in?” I often wonder!
5. Name Inspiration for Future Kids
Being in the classroom can also spark ideas for baby names. Each year, I encounter students with unique names that make my mental list for future children. Conversely, some names are forever tainted. I might initially think, “What a beautiful name! I’ll use that for my son!” Only to have that name linked forever with a challenging student who, after a few weeks, has already seen the principal and told me to be quiet—thanks, but no thanks, “Brent!”
To all the amazing students I had the privilege to teach, you helped me grow as a person and prepared me for the joys and challenges of motherhood. And to my fellow teacher moms, I know the last day of school brings mixed feelings. You might be thrilled to see the last of those little “Brents,” but remember that you never know what’s happening in their lives or how much they might secretly wish for someone to fill that motherly role. Before you dive into your much-deserved (but way too short) summer break, give them a hug—it could mean the world to them.
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In summary, teaching has profoundly influenced my approach to motherhood, providing me with essential skills that I rely on every day. From managing attitudes to nurturing patience and creativity, the lessons I learned in the classroom resonate in my parenting style.
Keyphrase: teaching motherhood connection
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