Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Bunch of Pilgrims

I was able to help in Ethan's class today. Love, love, LOVE to do this! Someday when all my kids are in school I want to be up there way more than I am now, but for the time being, I volunteer when I can find a sitter for Clare (she's not the quietest kid!).

Today was the 1st grade Thanksgiving Party, and Simon and I were in charge of bringing the stuff to make mini cornbread muffins. It is so much fun to be in the classroom and get to know E's friends. They are just so cute! Simon just sits and takes it all in...probably thinking about his turn to go to school. ;) It does look pretty dreamy!



Every time I am there, Ethan's desk is in a different spot. I think he talks a little too much. ;)



Actually, I know he does...but he has been working on it. This year has been considerably harder for him - not academically, but definitely behaviorally. He of course has trouble sitting still (from the looks of it, most of them do), but its not just that. He flies through his work and then while others are still writing, he talks. :) Or tries to make someone laugh. Or gets out of his seat. Not good. So we've had lots of talks and creative discipline...and it seems to us (and to his teacher) that his heart is to do what is right, even though he struggles making the day to day choices about it.

He is learning to take more time on his school work, focus on penmanship and making things neat. And to write his *observations* down for his teacher to read later, instead of blurting them out right away. :)

It has been so encouraging to us to see him actually succeed. To see his face light up when he can give a good report at the end of the school day. It has been a good opportunity to talk about authority and respect...and God's grace for when we mess up. And His ever present help too. So many things to learn when you're 6. :)




This Thanksgiving I'm very thankful for a school where the Word of God is taught and where they place value on applying it to the issues of life. For teachers who love your children and pray for wisdom in how to train their hearts. And for little boys who truly want to obey.




Even when it's way more fun to make the whole class laugh! ;)

2 comments:

Unknown said...

I will babysit Clare anytime you want to go help :)

(assuming my work schedule next semester will allow for a free day or two)

I remember Thanksgiving celebrations when I was in grade school. School really was dreamy back then!

Rachel said...

Thanks! I'm sure she would love it!

Today MeriKate watched her... pretty sweet. When we got married, I babysat MK and Brooklyn while Shawna was in school - they were about Clare's age then. So crazy!

Seriously, I think it's all the stuff on the walls that make it so fun. I could sit and look around for hours. :)