Day 1

Within the first five minutes of being in the classroom, it was clear that I had not mentally prepared myself for the high-stimulate day ahead. I had spent numerous early mornings with the three year olds trying to keep them occupied and entertained long enough for the teachers to prepare the projects for the day. Today I wasn't a volunteer for Hillcrest Fellows that would come in her uniform, play with the kids for about an hour, then leave promising to return in a week. Today I was the teacher. I prepared the crafts, lead opening circle, read stories to the class, and guided them through their crafts. 7:30-12:30 may not sound like a long time but when you become the center of a three year olds world, that seems like a lifetime. I came on a good week. Assessments of each child are being done this week. They don't receive grades or take hour long tests like I do. They are "graded" on their motor skills, able to identify letters and numbers, and how they interact with others their age. Who knew climbing the monkey bars was the ultimate accomplishment? I've only begun to learn about how vital it is for a child to think about doing an action then being able to make it actually happen. I can't wait for learn more about "what makes someone Pre-K 2 ready" and what does not.