It was Friday morning and my classroom was empty. The students had just left with the teacher who helps them exchange their library books for the week. A few minutes after my students in Grade 1 and 2 left the class, in walked in another student. He was a few minutes late and had his usual huge smile on his face. He’s 6 years old and in Grade 1. He’s absolutely adorable and has a huge heart. His smile is infectious and always lights up my day. So, with the two of us alone in our class, I said, “Good morning, Joe! Your parents must feel so fortunate to have such an amazing son who is always so happy!” (Joe is not his real name.) Joe’s smile became even bigger! And, then, away he went to the library with his book to be exchanged in his hand.
After school, I happened to be talking with Joe’s mom. She was dropping off some school notices which she felt she was late in returning to school. She was berating herself a little bit, saying that she was having a hard time getting things together. As a mom of 3, it is not easy to keep on top of all the things we need to do as moms. I felt for her and just simply said that it was okay and that it was important that she just be kind to herself. I went on to say that we are all just doing our best and that she is doing a wonderful job.