My First School Visit

I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to read T-Rex and Tuck Explore the Zoo to a group of preschoolers. The pre-school that requested my story time is a low-income program that assists families that struggle with some of the necessities and help them move forward to hopefully a better situation. The preschool program provides early learning for the children in these families. This was my first in school visit and I was a little nervous. I thought it would be about 15-20 students, but the email preparing for the visit said there would be 54! Would the kids enjoy the story? Is the story as engaging as I think it is? Will I fumble the words even though I wrote it and have read it out loud to my own kids one million times? These feelings and thoughts of doubt didn’t last long. I left the experience with my cup overflowing.

After introducing myself, I asked the students if they enjoyed story time. Almost all the kids yelled “yes” with excitement, except one. A little girl in the front row—right in front of me, yelled “no, I don’t.” Tough crowd. So, I looked at her and with a smile said “well, let’s listen to this story and then tell me what you think about story time.” Wouldn’t you know it, she was the first person to ask for a hug at the end of our time together. She enjoyed the story! It almost made me cry, not that making me cry (happy or sad tears) is that hard to do, but regardless, it was a touching moment. I felt like I got through to some of these little people. We all thoroughly enjoyed the 30 minutes, at least that is how I felt when leaving the facility. The joy radiating off their little faces was contagious. We all roared like lions and stomped like elephants. I asked them questions while reading it and got enthusiastic answers. Every one of the kids turned their listening ears on. I gave them T-Rex and Tuck coloring sheets, crayons, and Halloween sticker sheets. They were beyond excited for the little gifts. I also read Room on the Broom because we were getting so close to Halloween. As the kids left the story area I got so many hugs and excited announcements about what they were going to be for Halloween. In those sweet little moments, I realized how much every child just wants attention. And the little sparkle in their eyes when I showed true excitement for their costumes and stories made me think that maybe I filled their cups just as much as they filled mine.

But, the best part of the whole morning was how we ended it. I asked if everyone would stand up and I told them how truly special each and every one of them are. I told them that I would love it if they would follow my actions and repeat after me. Then I told them to always remember that each thing we were about to say together is true. What we said together is below and I encourage you to say it with your little ones as well. The more kids hear these beautiful statements about themselves, the more they will believe it. Can you imagine a future with confident kids that believe in themselves? I can and I can’t wait to see what the future holds because it looks bright.

Now, stand up and repeat after me…

I am brave.

(Superhero pose)

I am strong.

(Flex pose)

I am smart.

(Point to your brain)

I am kind.

(Hold your hands over your heart)

I was truly grateful for the opportunity and although my schedule is limited, if you or a teacher you know would like me to read to a class, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can email me at katie@authorkatiemarie.com or post in the comments below.