Going Back to Pre-K!

I have to go back to Pre-Kinder! I started a new job last week as a Pre-Kindergarten teacher's aide! Back to blocks, and ABC's and 123's! I love it! I love the way kids look at me with big eyes. They think I have all the answers and know how to do it all. Most of all, I love the way they say my name, Mrs. Gonalez, as Mrs. Gonalez (somehow they lose the Z).

I've noticed a few things being a Pre-K TA. A big one is not being able to wear heels! I have to wear comfortable clothing and lots of cotton, as I do a lot of dancing and walking around!

Also, a lot of the kids have accidents... lots of 'em. Potty accidents are the worst kind. And they love to put everything in their mouths! Glue, paste, crayons, paint, and play-doh are all materials of choice. A few other things I've noticed: they love to color and do puzzles.

Now you guys know how I love to compile lists, so I've compiled a list to help you with your own little one starting Pre-K:

• First: potty train them! Kids have way too many accidents at school.
• Read to your child! The more kids are read to, the better they will understand letters.
• Let them color at home! Buy them crayons and coloring books. It develops motor skills.
• Most importantly: let them learn. A lot of times I see parents trying to baby their 4-year-olds! They can do more than you think.
• And lastly: be careful what your kids hear/see. They repeat it all at school! Things like "my dad works at night 'cause he's a robber!" or "I'm peeing outside 'cause that's what my dad taught me to do."

Hopefully I'll survive the year at Pre-K!