There is this little boy in Kindergarten named Shane. Upon meeting this child, I wanted to sell him into slavery. Shane was a holy terror. He ran the classroom and once he began down the wrong path, there was no stopping him. And to make the problem even more enjoyable Shane would sass back and deny that he ever did a single thing wrong. Ideal child. Everyone should have one!

Ms. Connie, room 13’s afternoon Kindergarten teacher was out for a week which meant that Ms. Monica had the priviledge of tackling Shane’s territory. I have to be honest, that week was terrible. I could not control the child. Shane was in and out of the office all week. But I could tell the office was no real punishment for him when he gave me sly smirks on the way into the office. That child consumed every drop of patience within me. All week long I told his parents “Shane has been absolutely wild”, “Shane went to the office three times this afternoon”, “Shane is not controlling himself in class”, “Shane is very disrespectful,” and a whole list of other things. At the end of the week his parents decided it was a good idea to let me in on the facts. “Shane has troubles adjusting to new teachers, he often tests people’s authority.” You think?!

But then they did something that few parents do upon hearing word of their child’s disobedience. “Shane!” they spoke in one of those parent-voices, “You get over here right now!” They commanded the child from getting his backpack. “Now what happened today? Did you control yourself?” the accusation flew. “No,” Shane lowered his head, nearing tears. “That is absolutely unacceptable!” Shane’s head lowered. “…Well?”

The child stepped forward with a small voice, “I’m really sorry Ms. Monica.” His voice quivered. I bent down to him, my heart had melted. “It’s okay, Shane. I forgive you. But you’ll do better tomorrow, right?” I looked into his eyes. “Yes, he will.” responded his parent.

And you know what’s funny? I absolutely adore that child. Yeah he gets a little too hyper and a bit out of control in disorder, but ever since that day, Ms Connie has said to me, “I don’t know what you did, but that child adores you.” Now every time I come into the room, Shane will not leave my side. Shane is a huge hugger and often latches himself onto me, refusing to let go. There is no shame in that child’s need to be a baby around me. It’s hilarious. He’s this “rough and tough” kid who absolutely melts around me, latching onto my waist. I don’t mind, I drag half of them around anyway. But it’s so funny, though. Shane could be having the worst day ever, but the second he’s with me, he straightens up. Ms. Connie teases, “I don’t know what you do to that child, but he loves you. He’s been psychotic for me, but is he crazy for you? No… not his Ms. Monica. Oh my… Shane, Shane, Shane…”

It’s funny what good parenting will do for a child.

I love that kid!