From a Teacher to a Parent

At lunch I look around at my students’ faces and I sometimes notice a sad face turn into the brightest smile! When I look closer, this smile is often caused by a small note found in a lunch box. There is a misconception that children only remember big or extravagant events in their lives, however, most children point to the smallest moments being the most meaningful to them.

I teach at a private Christian school and in third grade students are given a Bible that travels with them throughout the rest of their time at our school. Since students receive the Bible the year I have them, I always send the Bible home with their parents and ask them to write a note in it for their child. It never fails to amaze me how many times students will read and reread these notes from their families; especially on days that they are having a hard time.

This is one example of a small action that can lead to a big impact. As children grow and they start trying to figure out who they are and who they want to be they are looking for examples to show that they are cared for. Sometimes, all a child needs is a small reminder that no matter what, you love them.

Extravagant gifts and grand vacations can make for a moment of happiness but reminders that your child is known, loved, and valued will permanently give your child a certainty of your love. Take just a minute of every day to tell your child that you love them and they matter and even in the hard times of hormones and puberty they will never doubt their place in your life.