On Day 1, teachers invited students to collect issues that mattered to them by thinking of books they’ve read or personal experiences. They generated a list of topics others could relate to and picked one to write down a few ideas.
For some reason, the first book that came to mind was Jessica Lahey’s The Gift of Failure, and I guess it’s because I see snapshots of her wisdom whenever Elena plays with a puzzle or tries to scoop more food with her spoon. The urge to help (rescue?) her is as real as the heaviness in my eyes while I write these lines.
Teachers also encouraged students to think in “list form” when coming up with ideas about their topic, and I’m grateful for that. I can write quickly and still go to bed early.
- The word “perfect” generates so many opinions—some people smile when they say their children are perfectionists, while others show signs of concern.
- Aiming toward perfection can start as early as preschool age. I think of every time Elena prematurely reaches a point of frustration and goes from “this is fun” to “HELP ME” in seconds.
- I’ve had an evolving opinion about how helping children can backfire, and I’ve tested these ideas as an educator for many years. Now, I have the mom perspective and it comes in various shades of color.
- It’s hard not to help them—perhaps harder when you’re a parent. But the teacher in me reminds me it’s not about assisting or not; it’s about timing and the message we want to send.
- I want a daughter who feels capable and brave enough to ask for help. Asking for help should always be seen as a strength. Every parent wants their child to feel capable and strong, but sometimes, they don’t have the right information to act on.
I think this would have felt much better surrounded by 4th graders writing at the same time. The good thing is that it is an easy [calendar] fix.
Start with a Story 