Although my typical day is full of screaming chaos and I find myself screaming "BE QUIET" more than I am proud of, there is something incredibly rewarding about working with children. If you also work with children, you will most likely find this list incredibly relatable. You can learn a lot from children, and we can only hope they learn some from us too.
1. The words "hungry," "bored" and "bathroom" make you cringe.
Three words that I certainly said a lot as a child and now I can't stand them when I hear child say them. Even worse, taking them to the bathroom, offering up things they could do, or having lunch still doesn't solve the problem.
2. You've had to remind yourself not to be so competitive during a game of cards.
Taking a deep breath during a game of UNO is a necessity to me because I get a little too intense and it scares children. I just don't like to lose.
3. Being called "Mom" is a normal thing.
I can not tell you how many times I've accidentally been called "Mom" but at this point I just respond to it. It must be the motherly vibe that I give off.
4. You find yourself looking at things that would be fun to do with kids.
That art project you just found on Pinterest? The kids need to do it. That tie dye kit you found at the store? Yup, it's happening. Don't even get me started on the art supply aisle.
5. You spend more time with people half your age than you do with people who are actually your age.
Here is to spending eight hours a day with children and maybe one hour with your friends. I can't complain though, at least kids think I'm funny.
6. Your friends have to tell you to stop talking to them like they are children.
You know, that slightly higher pitch voice you use when you are talking to kids? Yeah, that one. Sometimes I get stuck using that voice, even outside of work. Oh, I should stop using the words "potty" and "owwie" too!
7. You find yourself enjoying "childish" things.
Why yes, I do enjoy coloring, playing on the playground and a game of cards. I'm an adult child. I have the responsibilities of an adult who also really enjoys the activities that children get to do.
8. You are constantly exposed to illnesses.
Strep throat, pink eye, lice, colds and the flu. Just a typical week at work. It's awesome.
9. You realize the amount of sarcasm you use.
I never thought I was a sarcastic person until I was surrounded by children who do not understand sarcasm at all. Hopefully someday they will realize that I wasn't being mean, just trying to make a joke.
10. You find yourself exhausted but excited to come back the next day.
I can't even describe the amount of exhaustion I get from working with kids as they take a lot of energy out of me. I am always excited to get to work the next day to see the kids as you begin to develop a friendship and you know your day is going to be full of laughs and learning.
