Article
My Experience So Far..
ID # 3716
Having the opportunity to work with kids in a classroom setting this semester, has been different than I had expected it to be. It has brought a lot of joy into my afternoons and I can now see why some people bring so much passion with them through teaching. I see it as a very rewarding experience when you can help a child comprehend, or understand, or to even be excited about learning, especially something relating to another culture.
I have been fortunate being able to assist two teachers, from two different elementary schools, on a relatively consistent basis. I have been to Ephesus Elementary to work with 1st grade and kindergarten classes in physical education. To globalize or culturalize this setting, Mrs. Basnight has let me incorporate some cultural games into the 30-40 minute workout session. Their favorite was playing duck duck goose and they now know it originated in Cuba! I have also enjoyed going to Ms. Baxters fourth grade culture classroom and assisting a small group with a reading session. It makes me smile when they are excited to see me walk in the door. I have gotten to know these children and learned they are from many different backgrounds and numerous of the children were even born in a different country. Therefore, not only have I been helping them, they have been teaching me as well, from a young minds perspective their perception on the country they are from and what they think of America.
I dont think I envisioned anything in particular or had any certain expectations before I began working with the younger students, however, it makes me think, wow, was I really that curious, enthusiastic, and energetic? I am just blown away by some kids and their eagerness to learn, and their intelligence level already, which is great, but it is especially excitement for me to see them passionate about another countrys culture. I have watched the way Ms. Baxter and Mrs. Basnight handles the children, and I believe you have to have a special gift to possess the patience for teaching these age groups, because it takes an enormous amount of energy to keep kids engaged. I think this opportunity I have been given for interaction through volunteering has been a great reflecting and growing experience for myself, as a Global Studies major.