35: All We Ever Really Need To Know

"Most of what I need to know about how to live, and what to do,

and how to be, I learned in Kindergarten. 

Wisdom was not at the top of the graduate school mountain, 

but there in the sandbox at nursery school."

-Robert Fulghum

What is your best memory of Kindergarten?

I asked this question at the beginning of the school year to all the parents and of course, to myself as a teacher. I had high hopes that the core memories we collected when we were 5 years old will help shape the adventure that we could give the children in Kindergarten 2 this year -- one that is filled with valuable learnings, wonder, and joy. 

More than 9 months after and here we are, about to close this school year's chapter, a few days short of saying goodbye to Kindergarten 2. We learned a thing or two about transportation, art, and how to care for plants and animals -- but more than these, I would like to believe that it is the invaluable lessons we learned together that will leave an indelible mark on the children's hearts, hands and minds. 

Inspired by Robert Fulghum's timeless essay, "All I Ever Really Needed To Know I Learned in Kindergarten," let us celebrate the incredible journey of growth and discovery that our kindergarteners have embarked upon this year.

All We Ever Really Needed To Know We Learned Together in Kinder 2

Most of what we really need to know about how to live, and what to do, and how to be, we learned together in Kinder 2. Wisdom was not at the top of the graduate school mountain (it'd take more than a decade before we get there!) but there in the day-to-day moments we spent in kindergarten. These are the things we learned.

The Power of Friendship

We learned the joy of sharing, caring, and standing by each other. We discovered the strength of kind words, a helping hand, and a comforting smile. We understood that differences are to be celebrated, and kindness knows no boundaries. 

The Art of Play

We learned that play is a form of art, one that we use not just for fun but to learn deeper about ourselves and the world we live in. From building Legos to finger painting, we discovered the power of our imagination. We learned that creativity knows no bounds and that even the simplest objects can become gateways to endless possibilities. We discovered that play nurtures our mind and encourages us to think outside the box.

 

Embracing Curiosity

We learned that our questions matter. Our eagerness to uncover the mysteries of the world is the key to discovery and our personal growth. We discovered that our exploration, experimentation, and constant need to ask "why" is the foundation of a lifelong love for learning.

Mistakes Matter

We learned that it's okay to make mistakes because they teach us far more valuable lessons than when we always get everything right. We discovered that mistakes are stepping stones to getting better, and failures are opportunities to try again. Our growth mindset makes us resilient, courageous, and develops our strength of character.

The Beauty of Simple Things

We learned to cherish the beauty of simple things. A warm smile, a heartfelt "thank you," or a thoughtful drawing can go a long way. We discovered that small acts of kindness can brighten someone's day and create ripples of happiness. We learned how to slow down, appreciate the little things, and find joy in the simplest moments.

As we say goodbye to this school year, I hope the children will move on with a full heart and the belief that through them, the world can be a better place -- one filled with love, kindness, and endless possibilities. I hope that in Kindergarten, they learned that that they matter and that they are loved.

If you were to ask me what my best memory of Kindergarten is, I'd have to say that this year is definitely one of them. Thank you, dear Kinder 2, for being a part of this core memory.

For one last time,

your Kindergarten teacher, 

Pam