I love what I do. It is the perfect "job" for me - because I can do what I love and be a mom. Well, that was the plan anyway. Cadence still has two years before she'll be in Kindergarten, so this was my master plan for her. . . this year - Joy School, next year - Preschool (where I will be her teacher) - then Kindergarten. Joy School sounded perfect. We have a group of 5 kids. Each mom teaches two days every five weeks. Well, today was my first day as "teacher." It was a blast. I have missed teaching - getting the lesson together - playing with the kids - reading stories - singing songs - exploring through a child's eyes - 3-4 year old conflict resolution - coloring - painting - playing. I was stoked. Cadence was so excited that I was going to be "her teacher". . .
Here are some pics of my little group of joy kids. Our theme is the earth. We talked about seasons and what happens to trees - namely apple trees. Then we made applesauce. It was awesome. They were fascinated by the process.
Watching the applesauce appear.
Cranking the handle.
Enjoying a delicious home-made snack.
Our art project - a seed collage.
Well, after Joy School was over today, the master plan may need a little adjusting - a tweak - perhaps a total paradigm shift. My sweet little Cadence was not so sweet. She demanded to be first to do anything. She wanted to have total control over every little thing anyone did - including me. I love Cadence - I can't believe sometimes how much I love that little girl, but she sure threw me for a loop today. I never in a million years thought it would be a problem to have my own child in my "classroom." I know, I know, it was very naive of me, but I just thought this would be perfect. My way of being able to "work" and stay involved in what I love and still be a mom.
In reality, I know it was just the first day. It could totally be a fluke. But as of now, I am literally in tears. Wondering what to do. Questioning my abilities. Scratching my forehead. Can I be a "teacher" and a "mom"? I guess time will tell.
10 comments:
Oh, you are amazing! You can do it!! She's just comfortable to do those things because you are her mom. I think Dylanie would do the same. She is way better for others sometimes than she is for me. Why? Have a good cry and get back on the horse. You'll get it figured out. You deserve a medal for even trying in the first place. Man, I miss you. You are SO one of my FAVORITES!
My sweet, sweet daughter!! There will be more days of tears but many many many more of laughter and joy. I guarantee it! Cadence is pretty head strong (with both know that) but I agree with Amy that she felt way too comfortable in her own home. I think it will be just fine when you have your preschool room set up and she knows that it is the "school room" not just her home. Hang in there sweet daughter. You ARE doing the right thing--mom and teacher. I love you sweetie.
You are the best mom in the whole world, our girls are sooooooooooooo
lucky to have you as a mom. I love you so much thank you for being the glue that keeps our family together.
Ahhh, isn't what Ben said so nice??? DO you feel better now? You are truly the best mom and I wish I had an ounce of patience that you have.
I don't know what to say...If I had figured out my own children's behavior, maybe I could offer advice. All I know is to pick yourself up and try again tomorrow. Also, pray hard. Love you lots!
You know, we did a preschool last winter with some friends and the same thing happened. Usually our child would act up when we were teaching, need a lot of attention, want to do everything... So we did have to cater to our child a little when it was our turn, but they did get used to it. It's hard to share mommy with everyone! I wish we could meet little Caidence, I think she and Ella would get along! I can't beleve you made applesauce with 5 toddlers. Wonderwoman!
Oh how your post brought back memories. I Joy Schooled my 3 oldest boys. I love, love, love the program but it sure was a lot of work! Cadence is absolutely, positively normal in every way. I think almost all of the moms in our groups, me included, had the same problem. I think our kids feel most comfortable with good ole mom and so we are so lucky to get the good, bad, and the ugly that they have to release. Hang in there...it will slowly get better.
Rhonda
They are too unpredicatable some times aren't they? I am sure things will cool done and I can garuntee you don't have bad skills--- its nothing to do with that. Its probably hard seeing you give attention in a different way, but that she can get used to. She is so sweet and your lesson was so creative, and so fun! Look how happy all the kids are. Yes, you can do if if you feel its right. You Brooke, can do anything you are SUPER WOMAN!!! I ma proud of you, you are one of the most amazing women I know. And I do not just make this stuff up!
You are SO awesome! It looked like all the kids had a GREAT time! I could NEVER handle that many kids! Don't be too down about Cadence. EVERY kid does that to their mother. They are always better for somebody else. Spencer is always the worst kid in primary when I teach sharing time. I just treat him like all the other kids and let him have his turn and it usually works out okay. Some Sundays are better than others. I know how you feel. YOU CAN DO IT!!!!
I am sure as time goes on she will get used to it! Sharing mom is hard! It looked like SO much fun! I have been thinking about putting Spencer in a Joy School! How did you get it started?
GOOD LUCK next time, I am sure it will all even out! You are SO great with kids, I would LOVE to have you as a preschool teacher for my kids!
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