How Teaching Shaped My Parenting

By Kristen W

Before the gift of my two incredible children, I was given the gift of the opportunity to teach. Teaching is a gift and should be treated as such. I spent 10 years inside classrooms. I taught in three different states and in drastically different neighborhoods. I taught students as young as six, as old as thirteen, and the rest in between. What I found throughout my wildly different experiences was that, regardless of age, ethnicity, culture, or socioeconomic status, kids need someone to take an interest in them, have space physically and emotionally to learn, and for them to feel like they have a voice that will be heard. I also learned that kids are who they are. Psychologists identify this as children being born with a certain temperament, and that their temperaments can not be changed. 

My kids are now 12 and 14. When they were young, I tried my best to provide them with lots of opportunities to play and be who they were. I got down on the floor with them to play, but tried my best to let them explore and to provide space for curiosity. I really wanted them to find out who they were and what their interests were, but to know I was there if they needed me. I was also there to listen and learn who they were as people. They showed me who they are each and every day, and they continue to show me now. That teacher voice in my head reminds me to let them be who they are. Do I nag them about turning in homework on time and cleaning their room? Of course. But I do try as hard as I can (and it is hard) to let them navigate their own way and find their own answers to questions, but also reminding them that I am ALWAYS here for whatever they might need. A love of learning and children are the two best gifts one can receive. I hope you find yourself blessed with both of them.

If you are fortunate enough to become a parent, I encourage you to remain true to yourself while also creating the time and space for your children to discover who they are. Both you and your children will make mistakes; try to view each one as an opportunity for growth. Let them know you are always nearby for support, while also expressing confidence in their ability to find their own path. Establish clear boundaries so they understand the limits, but give them the freedom to show you who they are. In doing so, they will likely surprise you in ways you never imagined.