I don't know if you all know, but I'm 7 months pregnant with my first child. He's due September 17th and my husband and I couldn't be more excited! :) I have been a little anxious lately, wondering how I can balance it all. I'm one of "those" teachers who gets to school early, stays late and clearly works on the weekends and summers. I don't really consider it "work" because I love what I do but it does take away time I could be spending with family or friends. I'm sure you all know what I'm talking about!
With that being said, our school starts July 25th and our first break is September 25th for two weeks. I'll be in my classroom, or should be, the whole first 9 weeks. I'm happy for that...I can setup expectations, get them started in Daily 5 and hopefully get them in a steady routine. I worry though about when I'm gone. I know my principal will find a fabulous long term sub for me but I just cannot help but worry about what will go on in the classroom when I'm not there. I'm rarely absent because I just think it's so much more work to be gone that it is to be there. I'm also a tad bit of a control freak...I have seen too many times how a not so with it sub can completely turn a classroom upside down.
My question for you teacher moms out there is: How involved were you when you went on maternity leave? How connected were you with your long term sub?
I know I'll have my handsful at home with my new baby boy but I also know how I am and will worry about my kids at school too. I'd love to hear any advice you have! Thanks for sharing!! :)
Smiles
CONGRATULATIONS!!!
ReplyDeleteI thought I'd be completely involved both times I had a long-term sub. I had materials completely organized in binders for the subs for the first few weeks and then long term expectations written as well. Back then we used a reading basal and the math was also scfripted.
I ended up so involved with my babies that time all of a sudden slipped away. My first little one would sleep in my arms and when I put her down she woke up. Unfortunately for me, she only needed a 10 min. nap (I was EXHAUSTED)! I also was an hour away from family at the time. With my second one (they were 2 1/2 years apart) my oldest daughter was thrilled to have me home and I found myself spending time with both ... again, time slipped away.
My intentions were good but family came first. It's amazing how a baby can change so much.
Amy
Where Seconds Count 2nd grade blog
Thanks Amy! I'm fortunate that I have my mom and mother in law here who are just dying to help. It's hard to imagine what it will be like once he's here...but I will definitely do what you did and set it up in an organized way, to give my kids the best chance for a structured environment. 12 weeks to go!! Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteDixie
I was on maternity leave this past school year from Feb. until May. I am also a control freak. It can be overwhelming, but your sweet boy is going to grow up too fast. I know you hear that a lot, but it is not a joke. Spend as much time with him as you can... you will never get that time back. Your students will be fine.. don't worry about them. I have also learned that it doesn't matter how involved you are, your students are going to become accustomed to the way your sub likes things. That's okay. It will only take a short time to get them back where you want them.
ReplyDeleteGood Luck!
Terri
www.the-creative-apple.blogspot.com
Thanks Terri! I know things will change once he's here. I know I can still be the teacher I want to be and be a great mom, I'm sure it's all about learning balance! I love your blog by the way, you seem very efficient! Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteSmiles!
You are one of "those" teachers but now you have decided to become a mommy too. Give yourself room and time to blossom in THAT role! The fact is you won't be able to do it all the way you are used to doing it. Outstanding teachers get a lot of self-esteem from their work... let your new little guy work his magic on you and this new role! Perspective... as you know, you are YOUR child's first teacher and oh my the TIME he is going to need from you! Best Wishes!!!!
ReplyDelete