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Last year, I was fortunate enough to have several older students assist in my classroom. When Christmas rolled around, I gave each of the middle schoolers one of those Christmas-themed Hershey bars as a thank you gift.
Except for one student.
Me, in my infinite ignorance, thought that I was being considerate of this student's condition as a Type-1 diabetic by purchasing him some brain teaser toy instead.
I can only imagine the amount of patience and self-control this student had to put forth in order to smile at me and simply say, "Thank you."
I think back on this situation and grimace, because I've learned so much more about Type 1 Diabetes this year.
How? Well, yes, I took time to research on my own. But I learned the most just by listening to others.
And asking questions. By asking so. many. questions.
Because a child's health, safety, and identity are INFINITELY more important than my stupid pride.
Sorry for my ignorance, buddy. I owe you a candy bar.
Except for one student.
Me, in my infinite ignorance, thought that I was being considerate of this student's condition as a Type-1 diabetic by purchasing him some brain teaser toy instead.
I can only imagine the amount of patience and self-control this student had to put forth in order to smile at me and simply say, "Thank you."
I think back on this situation and grimace, because I've learned so much more about Type 1 Diabetes this year.
How? Well, yes, I took time to research on my own. But I learned the most just by listening to others.
And asking questions. By asking so. many. questions.
Because a child's health, safety, and identity are INFINITELY more important than my stupid pride.
Sorry for my ignorance, buddy. I owe you a candy bar.
We all have those moments. Sounds like you learned something that will stick with you. It's always hard. It feels like we need to be experts in everything. Listening is certainly a great tool. Glad you have some good resources.
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