To those who do what I could not

Back in my college days I toyed with the idea of becoming a teacher, an elementary school teacher to be exact. Enrolled as a business major, I thought my life might be better put to use teaching the youth of our nation. Maybe I could make a difference in the life of a youngster or two.

I don’t remember exactly what changed my mind, it might have been my mother, it might have been the fact that in my early 20’s I didn’t really like kids. Come to think of it, it might have been my mother reminding me that I didn’t like kids.

Fast forward nearly a decade, I’m the mother of two little boys.

Cameron is getting ready for Kindergarten in the fall, so we’re working with his preschool teachers to be sure he is prepared. I even got him one of those giant workbooks for pre-K. This book has all kinds of activities from letters, to science. Since his teachers have now told me twice that we need to work on his fine motor skills, and since he has no interest in regular coloring books, I thought it would be a good thing for us to work on together. I let him pick any section he wants, but I make sure he does whatever section he chooses in order.

This workbook was a great idea in theory, but it’s a lot more difficult than I ever imagined. Working with Cameron, I am so glad I never followed through on becoming a teacher. I would have never made it. I get frustrated that he’s not following the directions, then he gets lippy with me and we go around and around.

I have gained a new appreciation for not only his teachers, but for ALL teachers. I don’t know how you all do it everyday. Between kids who just don’t want to behave, and kids (like my Cameron) who refuse to color in the lines, it’s got to be enough to drive you mad. Really, how do you do it? Is it super human patience? Is it a few drinks after school each day? Or perhaps something in between?

I want to take an active role in my son’s education and reinforce what they do at school here at home. I just don’t have the patience for his lack of interest or his stubborn, I’m going to do the opposite of what you ask me to do nature.

I do think Cameron’s teachers have an unfair advantage too. From what I understand, he is a great student, he listens and does what is asked of him. His teachers last year actually said he was, “eager to please.” Who? My kid? No way! I don’t understand how the kid that listens, follows directions and is respectful at school can be the same child that comes home to me each day. Could his teachers be lying to me to try and make me feel better? The world, or at least I, may never know.

But really, to all you teachers out there, THANK YOU! Thank you for doing what I would have failed so miserably at. But most importantly, thank you for doing your best each day so that our children can be their best.

Any suggestions for me? Email me at MyLifeInMommyland@me.com.