Confessions of a former Kindergarten teacher
I wasn’t going to do it this year. I swear I wasn’t. But old habits die hard. After 37 years in an elementary classroom, the school calendar still runs in my veins. And on February 1st the hearts began to pop up everywhere. First, a trip to the fabric store where I scored some half-price fabric and this shiny (dare I say gaudy) wreath. Then at the dollar I couldn’t resist buying Valentine’s Day cards and a bag (OK, 2 bags) of Valentine Candy. Yes, I know, I don’t have a class. And I don’t want one. After three years of retirement, I’ve become accustomed to living life on my own schedule. What stress I have is of my own making. I’m not sure I could even survive Valentine’s Day in a classroom anymore, But still…
Kindergarten Valentine’s Days Remembered
Valentine’s Day in a kindergarten classroom is not for the weak of heart. Of course, preparations began long before the 14th. Unless students brought their own decorated collection boxes from home, we’d spend an afternoon in a flurry of glue and glitter as we decorated white paper sacks with colorful hearts. Some preparation took place at home. Students who were just learning to print their name would painstakingly sign each card, picking out just the right one for this or that friend. Distribution of the cards could take days as teacher assistants helped to make sure they delivered each card into the right sack or box.
On V-Day, the excited five-year-olds would open their cards one by one.
“What does this say?” “Who’s it from?” they’d gush, often running over to the giver of the greeting to say “Thank you!” When the opening process was completed, we’d sort through the paper debris, trying to be careful to put the cards back in the bags or boxes. Then came the treats. Before health standards, the philosophy was “sugar them up and send them home.” And in the days of half-day kindergarten, I’d do it all again with a new group in the afternoon.
Its all in the past
Yep, definitely glad that’s all behind me. But… maybe I’ll hang that heart-shaped wreath. And I could mail a few valentines. Where did I put that bag (or two) of candy? Glitter, anyone?
Threads of Thought:
What memories do you have of Valentine’s Day at school?
What’s Deb going to do with this fabric?
As usual my dear friend, charming and sweet memories revealed. At 4:11 A.M., and with a stiff neck, just what I needed to rest. Thanks for the post. David
Thanks David!
I, also, decorated for VDay! I bought cards, candy and gifts for my grandchildren. I remember the excitement of the kiddos putting theirs in the decorated boxes. I also remember us having extra valentines, for the children that didn’t bring any from home. These are cherished memories for me and do is your friendship🥰
Debbie, I can’t think of Kindergarten without thinking of you. Oh, the stories we could tell! LOL
Oh Deb!! Love reading your blog! You are loved my many and admired by even more!! You look wonderful and still have a gift of story telling!!
Tabetha
Thanks Tabetha! It’s so good to hear from you! I’m glad to be retired, especially during this crazy time, but I miss my you and all my other teaching buddies who are still on the “front lines.”