What do kids want these days? To answer that, I would say to freely express themselves. Most parents would read that response and say, "Oh God, You'd be a horrible Parent." But think about it, honestly; at the end of the day, a kid is going to want to do absolutely, positively, nothing, but simply sit and reflect on the events of the day. Men, women, who are grown up, we do it all the time, just in a more mature way. Call it gossip. But I continue; give a child your ear and they'll give you their life story along with all of their gratitude. Do it again, and they'll treat you like you're the only person on earth that listens. How special is that?
A child had come into my room, 128 B of Timber Lakes Elementary School, and had asked to use the restroom, right away. I could've easily let her go, but instead, I said, "Hello to you too," in a sarcastic way. She smiled and began with a proper greeting and from there I began to ask her what her day was like. I have, in my room, a bulletin board that is called, "The Adjective Box." The adjective box is a place for feelings. "Today, I Am..."
During the kids free time they must present an adjective explaining how they are feeling on a particular day. So the child began telling me how she was feeling and why; mind you, we spoke for over thirty minutes. Now, go up a few lines or so and read about her urgency to use the restroom... See what I mean?
I am so grateful and positively effected by these kids. My 5th graders especially. With my birthday being today, I do not, at all, feel as if I've turned twenty. I'm still loose, in shape, and can hang with the best of them. I still crack jokes, pick my nose, and eat my boogers (not true). But I do feel as if I'm recreating my childhood at times.
These kids are full of surprises and always have the ability to put a smile on my face and because I listen to them, they listen to me. I am able to lecture them, give them rules and regulations, and have them do their homework without them hating me; all because I simply take time out of my day to listen to them and give them time to express themselves. It is powerful...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0oqd7dfh1g8
I wrote a song for the kids, entitled, "You've Got It Now." Above is a link of the live recording of its acoustic version. Click it and give it a listen. The song is about everything that happens on the first day of school, no matter what grade, preferably in elementary school; the butterflies, the meeting of the new friends, the assigned seats, and the feelings at the end of the day. Any grown up who is a kid at heart can surely relate, so I believe that you will enjoy my song of inspiration. Soon, I wish to make a mini-documentary. I might as well. I'll be there all year...
I'd love to take this time out to thank all of the wonderful kids in room 128 B for being spectacular thus far. I will continue to give you my ear with the return of your respect. I love you all. Thank you for bringing my childhood back.
With an open ear and heart for greater things,
Evan
