Thursdays at Hein

I had the privilege of volunteering in Jack's class every other Thursday this school year. Between myself and Dairus' mom Tracey, we were the main parent volunteers. We kept each other informed and did what we could to help Ms. Van. I tried to develop a relationship with her and a good rapport so communication would be free between us.

I was happy to help in any way, as long as I got to stay IN the classroom. I hated it when she needed copies made in the office! I liked being able to see and hear what was going on. Jack never told us much about his day at school so I needed to see for myself! My favorite part of the day was the calendar. They sang cute "days of the week" songs and she read a book to them while they sat on the carpet. Jack usually wanted to cuddle with me or have me rub his back during storytime. He was always really happy when I was in his class and sad when I had to leave to go pick up Abby from preschool at 1:30 each time. The kids got to know me too which was fun. They called me Mrs. Adamson which was pretty hilarious. I always felt like I could be there all day and be just fine. I really enjoyed my time there!

My days started off at 11:00 in the cafeteria. Jack got to pick 3 people to join us each time at a separate table from the rest of the class. He was hilarious how he picked who would eat with us. He didn't want anyone to beg. If they did, he didn't pick them. He was pretty fair and chose different people pretty much every time. Almost as if he gave everyone a turn. Although just with the boys. The only girl he ever picked was Hailey. She's kind of a tomboy and not one of the girlie girls.

Here are the usual suspects. Ben, Darius and Hailey. Matt, Xavier and Elvin were his other favorite friends to join us for lunch. He even invited Antonio (the most difficult child in his class who he's not really friends with) to join us one time because it was his birthday.

After scarfing down lunch they all run to their various places at recess. Without a doubt Jack ran straight to the tetherball courts! This boy is passionate about tetherball. I had fun playing against him and anyone else who wanted the challenge. I usually had a long line of kids, both 1st and 2nd graders :) Sadly there were a few kids that could beat me, including Jack by the end of the school year! He got good! Other options were soccer, 4 square, dodgeball, basketball and the playground. He chose tetherball, every recess, every day.

I love the system. First you RoShamBo to see who serves. Then the next person in line decides on the rules. Ropies? Blockies? And general "crossing of the line" watching. Most likely the server wins because they get to pick which way they want to serve. RoShamBo is very critical and Jack is good at it!

Jack just loves to play anyone who wants to play. He played girls, kids from other classes and even 2nd graders. He thought it was such a big deal if he or I could beat a 2nd grader!
I loved being able to see him in his environment and be a part of the process. Seeing who his friends were, how he acted in class and just observing the teacher were important to me. I'm so thankful for the time I had and I hope and pray I'm able to do it every year for both Jack and eventually Abby when she attends Hein.

Thank you honey for working hard each and every day so I can do things like this! I appreciate you!