Lessons from my summer of the toddlers

Well, my summer of volunteering with my church’s early childhood education department has officially come to an end. They all get promoted to new classrooms next week and the regular volunteers resume their ministry positions.

One part of me will miss the little tykes. Another part of me is ready to get back into my rut of living with adults again. I’m on the call list to fill in when a shortage arises during the year, so I’ll be back.

Some of them left a lasting impression on me.

When you look up the word “mischievous” in the dictionary there’s a picture of Evan there. His smile always conveyed that message to me. He can be a bit of a clown, perhaps acting is in his future.

Reid has a few adjustment issues to deal with. He can change from a cry to a full-out laugh in less than a minute. He does appreciate being read to, too. I hope he enjoys my books when he can read on his own.

Henry has some leadership potential in him. With the right guidance he’ll go far. I hope he’s well grounded in Jesus when his time to shine comes.

Sweet Emily will make a great mom someday. She stood out in a room full of boys in more ways than one.

Olivia’s parents need to keep a close eye on her. She can steal a heart quickly. I pray for God’s protection over her as she matures.

The twins, Merritt and Marlowe, need a very patient hand to love them right now. In time they’ll be strong.

These little stinkers taught me a few lessons along the way as well.

When a mom warns you to hold her son facing away from you because of his inability to keep breakfast down from his intense crying, either do as she says or hold him so close he feels your love coming from your soul. I chose the latter option and we got along fine.

To keep toddler juice from getting on your clothes don’t tip boys upside-down after they’ve had something to drink, especially if you’re planning on picking up groceries on the way home.

A hug and some one-on-one time is always appreciated. I had three kids trying to sit on my lap during story time and another standing behind me. Who says men can’t impact kids in a positive way?

The most important toy in a room full of them is the one in someone else’s hand. Why don’t we ever outgrow that one?

The caretaker in the room is quickly discarded when Dad shows up. I couldn’t convince Reid to let me take him home after his family arrived. I don’t blame him. As soon as my heavenly Father calls for me ain’t nobody else getting my attention or affection, neither.

Now that I’ve lived to tell about my summer of the toddlers I’m ready for my next adventure.

How about becoming a full-fledged author, God? *hint*hint*

Keep smiling.   Wade

By wadewebster

I'm a truck driver turned writer. My writing drives people to Jesus. I love sunsets/sunrises, dark chocolate, coffee, cats and dogs (as long as their owners pick up after them) and solitude. My relationship with God through Jesus Christ is most important to me, not a religion. This writing gig is all God's idea. I only wish to bring more attention to Jesus with it.

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