Personal Growth Anonymous

No matter how hectic my summer morning was, at 8:30 when I entered the Early Childhood Learning Center, all of my troubles were forgotten. Bubbly boys and girls filled the halls spreading a little piece of their happiness with whoever walked their way. A simple wave. A hug. A toothy smile. There were days they did not quite understand the activities we were doing and there were days they excelled, surpassing all expectations we had. No matter their success, their smile stood strong, their waves energetic, and their hugs tight and filled with love. I was so lucky to get to spend my summer mornings with these kids during their extended school year. The experience taught me things books will never be able to.

I know you are never supposed to have a “favorite child”, but between you and me, Keegan was my absolute favorite child at ECLC. His language was weak, his basic skills just beginning to evolve into effective, but his personality was contagious. Every Thursday for 20 minutes, Keegan and I would practice his cutting--learning how to open and shut beginner scissors to cut out 5 inch shapes. We would color 80% of a picture for the duration of 2 minutes with minimal distractions. We would squeeze clothes pins to pick up pom-poms...