Rightly, or wrongly, I often compare my classroom to a zoo. A zoo is full of different and unique animals, just like my class is full of different and unique humans.
I know what you’re thinking… “She’s loopy”. Either that or you think I am the worst teacher in the world. But…hear me out. There are so many similarities between wild creatures and children, and passing up an opportunity to make and share the correlation, was just something I could not do.
Ever seen a Kindergartener or Year One student go full toddler-tantrum on you? BOOM. There is your gorilla.
Ever beg a student to hurry up because it takes them ten million years to do anything, including find a pencil or open a page in their book? That is because they are like the land tortoise who moves at less than one mile an hour.
Oh, wait. Did someone in your class open a snack, that looks tastier than the others? No way they’re going to enjoy that little goodie without the 23 other children asking for some! Children have this sloth-like, keen sense of smell and great eyesight.
And, how about those lorys who have no concept of respect for personal space. Just like children, right? As a teacher you are constantly reinforcing the “bubble” and students just can’t seem to not tug, touch, or demand your attention.
You know what other animal children are like? Giraffes — moody and often resist complying with the requests of handlers. Who does this sound like? Who else can be ill-tempered, rebellious and non-compliant? I don’t think I have to tell you who — pretty sure you have that one figured out.
You also can’t forget about how children, typically stink like a warthog (those farts!) and spit like a llama whenever they talk excitedly to you.
Finally, there is one last comparison to be made. However, this one might surprise you. A butterfly. How are butterflies similar to children? Well, just each child, each is different and unique. Each had different mannerisms, Each one takes a different path and flies in their own way. Each butterfly is beautiful and makes us smile. Just like the children in our class.
Just like animals in a zoo, each child needs to be supported, fed (think learning) and cared for in a way that is specific to their needs. It is this aspect, that truly makes being a teacher, simply…a privilege.
P.S. This is my last post for the A-Z Challenge, 2019. Yay! I made it *insert happy dance*
I hope you have enjoyed my posts on the “A-Z of Teaching”…and now, for a well-earned rest!