Oct. 22, 2015
As an adult, I often forget the limitations that once dictated my life. If I crave dessert before dinner, no one stops me. If I want to sneak out of my room after bedtime, no one questions my motives. While it feels liberating to make my own choices, I sometimes overlook the challenges children face in a world filled with rules and restrictions.
Though I’m not a parent in the conventional sense—I haven’t given birth—I do have a wealth of experience as a middle school English teacher. Many might shudder at the thought of stepping into a classroom with 30 preteens, and I totally understand why. After enduring countless eye rolls and dramatic hair flips, I’ve gained valuable insights into kids that might surprise their parents. I see my time in the classroom as invaluable preparation for when I eventually become a parent.
1. Kids Are Often Anxious
If you’ve ever asked a 13-year-old to present in front of their peers, you know even the most confident ones would rather avoid it. It took me ages to realize why no one wanted to help distribute papers—it’s because they dread being the center of attention while everyone else watches. Life can be intimidating, and it’s our responsibility as adults to ease that fear. When kids come home after a day of suppressing their true selves, they long to express who they truly are. Encourage them to embrace their individuality. Don’t dismiss their feelings as silly or unrealistic. Instead, let them dream big and inspire them to pursue those dreams.
2. Kids Crave Parental Support
When a child neglects to turn in their homework, they may act nonchalant in front of their friends, but once alone with their teacher, they often feel remorse. They will negotiate to avoid having their parents find out about their slip-up. Kids constantly think about their parents’ perceptions of them. “Are they proud of me?” is a common concern, along with “Will they forgive me?” The answers should always be affirmative.
3. Kids Are Incredibly Creative—Nurture It
From a young age, children exhibit remarkable creativity. I remember when my niece, at just two years old, insisted we were embarking on a journey to outer space to see the stars. Instead of grounding their imagination with harsh realities, we should celebrate it. Ask your child about their imaginative ideas and remind them that their aspirations are valid. While growing up often leads to a more pragmatic view of the world, we can strive to keep a bit of that creative spark alive.
4. Kids Sometimes Lie
At some stage, children learn that bending the truth can be easier than facing reality. They may even convince themselves of their own fabrications. I’ve seen teenagers so adamant about their falsehoods that it becomes a challenge to move forward. Don’t shy away from addressing these lies, but do so with understanding. There’s often a reason behind their fear of the truth, and this presents an opportunity for growth and learning.
5. Kids Require Guidance
Life is a puzzle and, like all of us, children are trying to piece it together. They often need more support to feel secure about their place in the world. Kids might not always articulate their need for help, making it tricky for parents and educators to know when to step in. I may not experience the sleepless nights of new parenthood or the anxieties of a parent waiting for a teen driver to return home, but I recognize that working to understand your child more each day, loving who they are, and forgiving them for their mistakes is the best approach.
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In summary, whether you’re a teacher or a parent, understanding and supporting children as they navigate their formative years is crucial for their development. Embrace their creativity, be there for them, and help them face their fears while fostering an environment of acceptance and growth.
Keyphrase: Teacher insights on parenting
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