When first entering the field of Early Childhood, the most difficult challenge for me was co-teaching. Although I was aware that having another teacher in the room was necessary, I was not used to collaborating so closely with another person. I have worked with great teachers, and a few that left something to be desired. I am currently working with three fabulous, creative, and unique women. Each brings something different to our classroom. Watching them with our students sets me at ease. Not only do I trust them all implicitly; I value their presence, opinion, intelligence, energy, and companionship.
We have a child in our classroom that struggles with control over his body and vocals. He is in constant motion, and is sometimes disruptive to other children. Today, we had our Naturalist buddy visit our classroom. He introduced us to four animals; allowing the children to touch the animals and ask questions. This little boy was struggling to be calm and still. One of my co-teachers sat with him. She kept a hand on him to ease his anxiety, spoke softly and sweetly to him; gently reminding him to relax and breath. I watched as tension left his body; she appeared completely unaware of the profound impact she had on him throughout this presentation.
I'm sure I will tell many stories of these wonderful women with whom I have the privilege to work. Co-teaching is not easy; finding fluidity with a team of four ladies is nearly impossible. I am glad to have found such a balance in our classroom. Our positivity toward one another and joy to be learning from each other reflects in our teaching and encourages our students to pursue the same relationships. Thank you, ladies! You are the best!
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