The Seeds we Plant Grow Over Time

When I was of elementary age, our school offered a free aftercare program. An empty classroom was open for games and crafts, and the playground was available for sports and group games. The adult leaders were college students that were gaining experience with children while working toward a teaching degree

The aftercare leaders would change from time to time, but the program would remain the same. One new leader was different. He worked at getting to know us by talking with us and challenging us to be our best selves. This teacher, who later became a friend, is why I decided to work with children. 

After many years in the field, I have worked with hundreds of families. In moments of reflection, I wondered what happened to (child’s name) and the family? How are they doing? How did the child grow up? 

Educators are in the lives of the children and families we serve for a moment. A moment is a small amount of time to offer a lasting impact. I do not believe changing lives is our plan; as educators go about the day-to-day journey of working in the classroom, it is a byproduct of our work.

A few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to catch up with some children from one of the schools where I was an educator. I was at the school from out of state, and thanks to social media, word got out that I was visiting. It was a touching moment to see how many of the children came back to say hello. All of the children I remembered as little were all grown up. 

As teenagers, they are all doing great. They came to share memories of the fun we had and how they were doing in school and life. I have been reflecting on this experience for a few weeks, and I find it amazing to see how the children grew up. Some other children I have worked with are even older, in or out of college and into their careers. Amazing.

In the end, I believe educators are planting seeds and watching them grow. To grow roots we must, tend to the soil, plant at the proper depth, care for, and water carefully. Then we look up one day, and mature plants appear and are the miracle of life as an educator.