Ode to a Preschool Teacher

I’ve got 50 kids, more or less,

From early morning ‘til almost sunset.

I know their siblings, what makes them stress,

Their names for every cherished pet.

I track their poops—yes, every texture and shade—

I know every friendship they have made,

Their favorite color, their worst fear,

Which blanket they hold so dear.

We spend more time together than at home

A second family until they’re grown.

You try wrestling 20 kids into rain suits,

And keeping straight their allergies

Why did Zoe take off her boots?

Who gave Joey cheese?

With two subs on the list, better book them in advance

The flu is going around? You have to take a chance

Sick days off are few and far between

The work of most teachers goes unseen

Few are up to the challenge, fewer know the way

To balance softness with firmness,

To learn while you play

First to arrive, last to leave

We craft the perfect routine for years

But see this trick up our sleeve

Poof!— a wonderland appears

Pajama days and cookie dough,

Old calendars made new for show,

Songs made up on the spot

A voice speaks up for every thought

I work magic through this space,

Though few can see the hidden grace.

Selflessness is the name of the game

While wishing others would do the same.

Teaching little humans to be their best,

How to live and love and rest,

How to care for our home on Earth—

To lead by example shows everlasting worth

When words are limiting, there’s nothing to say,

I will show up, day after day

Set aside my troubles to play hide and seek,

Blow bubbles, make believe, laugh and peek.

I urge us all to let our inner children know

There’s space for everyone to play and grow 

To see the world through fresh, wondering eyes

When each new morning allows you to rise

I teach little humans to be kind and true,

But they are teaching me that, too.

50 hearts, 100 hands

Building castles in the sand

We are growing up together here,

Through every laugh and every tear

This is my job, but it’s also my art

Teaching humans how to start.

From The Wild Unknown Tarot