Each year we send about sixty children off into the big world and on to Kindergarten. Each year I send them with the same message, a passage from a book that I hold near and dear to my heart, "Oh, the Places You'll Go!" by Dr. Seuss.
I remember reading this book with my Dad and Grandma at different points in my life. First with my Dad during our night time story around age 5 or 6 and then later in life, at my college graduation with my Grandma. I hope that the children that I send off each year take these words to heart, and maybe carry them with them as they make choices and get on their way!
This is lovely, Machaela. I hope that the little ones you send off are able to file your message away somewhere and look back at it for years to come.
ReplyDeleteMy 8th grade English teacher wrote me a card upon my graduation. I will never forget the words. It said, "Now that you can describe the stars so perfectly, you get to go reach for them!" It may sound simple, but I am 38 years old and I still remember it! Teachers can be so powerful. Books can be so powerful. I would be willing to bet that you are leaving some wonderful memories and messages in the minds and hearts of the little ones that you work with.
Thank you for sharing!
Oh- btw... On the topic of books, do you know any good books to help little ones understand the passing of a loved one? I've been trying to find a good one for preschool age children to no avail.
Thanks again!
-Lauren
Lauren--I have several books that I've used before for children experiencing death--there are quite a few different topics (death of parent, grandparent, pet), but these two books kind of hit on everything.
Delete1. The Invisible String by Patrice Karst is simple, and always makes me cry. It's something that after I experienced a death that comforted me, but is a beautiful, simple book for children.
2. The Next Place by Warren Hanson is another one of my favorites. It's a visually stunning book.
Thank you so much for the recommendatios, Machaela! I really appreciate it. My grandmother passed last week and my youngest is having trouble understand it. I really appreciate your help.
DeleteBest,
Lauren
Hi Macheala, thank you for making me teary!!!
ReplyDeleteHow special that a book can mean so much to you as a child and you have the ability to pass on the same meaning to others. I love how you read the book again with your grandma when you graduated. How special. Would you mind if I shared your story with my students? In class we talk about the importance of reading to children as young as infants and continue on through all of the other age groups. It would be great for them to hear how one book can make such an impact on one's life. This will make them realize that there is more to reading a book than just reading it!!
I will think about what you wrote for a long time! Thank you!
Take care,
Stephanie
Share away, Stephanie! My dad and I would read a book every single night before bed until I was, admittedly, too old!
DeleteI am glad that we like the same book. That is amazing out of all the children's books we picked the same book. That book is truly amazing.
ReplyDelete