Dateline Boston — This summer marks 30 years that I’ve worked with children. That is a lot of years. I started when I was in high school. I have worked at a YMCA, a castle in Central Park (I really did!), two parent cooperative preschools, a couple of summer camps, I taught English at three elementary schools and one junior high school in Japan, I’ve been a nanny for two families, done tons of babysitting, and was an orientation leader in college.
I’ve taught lessons on pond life, weather, insects, done tons of craft projects, sang rock songs and showed preschoolers how to do air guitar, sang The Beatles with junior high school kids who didn’t speak English, I’ve led cooperative games, changed diapers, administered medicine, supervised play dates…I’ve worked with kids from birth to 18. You name it, I’ve done it.
They Are Our Teachers
Working with kids is my passion. My calling. My role in life. Everywhere I go, I am drawn to these little beings, who teach us grownups so much about how to be in the moment and love every little thing that comes our way.
I’ve never given birth to a child. I have two teenage stepsons, and I’ve been a nanny for the past four years with the same family; started out with one child, now we’re up to three. Being a nanny is the closest thing I’ve felt to being a parent, except that I get to sleep for eight hours every night.
When my oldest charge was in kindergarten and had friends over, I found myself reverting to my teacher days. I’d set out a snack and talk about the food they were eating. I’d put out art projects, and talk about sharing and taking turns.
After a few months, I thought, “Hmm, I’m acting like a teacher. Perhaps it’s time to go back.”
One year and one baby later, I’m ready. The hardest part for me will be saying “see you not as often” to my little boy whom I have helped raise since he was born. I met him when he was three hours old. Now he is three years! He is the one who got me over my fear of babies. He came born with a sense of humor, so we connected immediately. We laugh several times every day.
I’m going back to what I love, teaching preschool kids at a parent cooperative. I just got a job, starting in September! I love working with parents. We’re in this together. It takes a village, right?
People make the world go ‘round, and it starts with kids. For me, it ends with kids, too. I am so blessed to do what I love, every single day. Next time you see a kid, look at the world through their eyes. I guarantee it’ll blow your mind.
Ms. Vaillancourt may be contacted at snobbyblog@gmail.com
