I believe in adults adapting to the new generations. The world grows and stuff changes, and the torch of life is passed down. Some people need to learn that and let go of their time. Children are influenced by everyday life, they are creative and full of joy, but they are also fragile. Education is very important because you are influencing these kids and who they are. I deeply believe that you should be understanding and adapt to each child's individual needs. Teachers are one of these individuals. 

Now I'm pretty supported when it comes to education with accommodations. But this wasn't always the case. When I was a kid, I was told stuff like “I know it’s hard but power through!” Without them actually understanding what I needed, they didn’t help me. This led to me having self esteem issues, thinking i’m dumb and that i’m not worth much. Even though you think you know what your kid is thinking, be real, you don’t. There is a thing called masking and it is common in autism, kids pretend they're normal, they might or might not know they're doing it, and once they do, they often can’t stop. 

You need to make a welcoming and comfortable environment for your students. Neil Postman once said “Children are a message we send to a time we will never see.” and I agree with that. Don’t put your old personal grudges with them. Let them choose what they do and believe in life. Tell them the entire story. Have one on one check ins with them. Go on a walk with them in the woods. Leave homework in the printer. Say if one kid is having trouble with something, set up a plan with them and give them control of what to do. Yes, you can still give suggestions, just don’t be pushy. 

Parents are also a very important part of how a kid grows. They are role models of some sorts. Someone might think one little wave could change the entirety of their life, but pump the breaks. Yes you need to take care of them, but let them live their life. Give them choices and let them know of free will from an early age. Eggs or Pancakes for Breakfast? The park or the bookstore?  I believe in reading aloud with them. I believe in playing legos with them. I believe in spending quality time with them. 

I hate it when parents and teachers look at a CHILD and say they have to act more mature. They’ll get mad at us acting like teenagers, yet we are teenagers. Yes, be sure to keep us in line, but the line doesn't have to be so narrow. I’ve been yelled at for chatting a bit, being angry and rebelling a bit. Even the parents forget that we’re in a stage of being angry and rebelling. If you get mad at kids for doing one thing that’s not that much, then you're not fit for being a parent or teacher.  

But I really love my parents, they’ve taught me so much stuff. Does this mean they are perfect? No, no one is. Sure they could've done stuff better and times where they didn’t make the right move in my opinion. But I know they're trying their best. 

I love it when people smile. It’s unbearable to see them cry. 

The main point is to be flexible with your kids. Your kid is a picky eater? Have them try one bite, if they don’t like it, they don’t. Let them take mental health days. Learn and Adapt.