Creating Human Connections and Everyone Learns

 

For a class video reflection this week, I watched a Kindergartener who makes pictures and gives them away to make others happy. In fact, the charismatic kindergartener stated, "If my pictures can make someone smile than I am happy!"  This child reminds us about the big picture. As educators, we worry about teaching the curriculum, student learning and statewide assessments. The video reminds us of what we really need. We need a community of students like this kindergartener who is KIND and CARES for others. 

As a teacher of the blind and visually impaired in an inclusive setting, I look for opportunities for my students to be included in their community in and out of the school setting. Recess allows opportunities for them to socialize with their peers, to have conversations and to learn to be empathetic towards others.  Center time in science and social studies allows for differentiated instruction, teamwork and more socialization with peers. If my work as an educator changes the life of a child by creating opportunities for them to learn from each other in an inclusive environment where students are KIND and CARE for each other than I am HAPPY!