Greetings!
Today was my son's last day of Kindergarten. Like anything in life there were some tough moments but, thankfully, it has been a fabulous year for him - and his parents! I dropped Liam off at the school playground this morning and as he gave me a quick gap toothed smile I couldn't help but be amazed at how much I've learned from him through his experience of his first year at school.
Liam's kindergarten experience reminded me that kids are learning things that are just as important for adults to embrace.
Here are a few lessons:
Learning can be fun! - As I looked over his school projects, I was reminded about the power of curiosity and the excitement in gaining new knowledge about how the world works.
The importance of community - you could literally feel the positive energy entering my son's classroom. I heard lots of stories at home about classmates helping each other read, with projects, in gym, etc. Amazing that learn that 5 year-olds are so naturally collaborative.
Remember to PLAY on a daily basis - This was a typical conversation. Me: 'what was the best part of your day, buddy?' Liam: 'Recess'. Me: 'What was so great about recess?' Liam: 'We played ______!'
Seek out positive teachers/mentors - I cannot begin to count the number of times we heard 'Mrs. Olive told me that I was doing good work today'. What a fantastic way to build confidence in your abilities!
It's okay to be scared of new unknown experiences but don't let fear get the best of you - You forget how many new situations (rules, bus, school yard, classmates, teachers, etc., etc.) kids experience on a daily basis. I learned a lot about being scared AND having the courage to move beyond fear and try new things. More on this at a later date...
Do any of these resonate with you? If so, which one? How would you incorporate it into your life?
Tell me about it!
As I look over the things I've learned from my son this year, it's clear to me where my biggest opportunity is...PLAY! Thankfully my boy reminds me to do this every single day.
Share and grow,
the upcoming 5-5-5 workshop in June in Moncton, the cost for the full-day training will be reduced to $495 per person.
in 1977, 17 years ago and became president in 2000. Lorneville Mechanical Contractors Ltd. president Styve Dumouchel has worked for the company since he was 14.