Inspiration from a 1st Grade Writer’s Workshop…
At the start of the summer, there was lots of talk about whether or not schools would open up in the Fall due to Coronavirus. When my son’s school gave the option to attend remotely, his father and I thought it best to homeschool him. While Sebastian was sad that he STILL wouldn’t see his friends in this upcoming 1st grade year (he hadn’t seen them in person since March), there was some excitement to be home with mom everyday (I can’t honestly say that I shared in that excitement but, OK!). This year, I wanted to really try and focus on being present emotionally for him. I realized that I wasn’t the only one dealing with emotions behind navigating within this new space and all that has happened within it. I had to consider how for a 6-year-old, understanding these past 8 months have been hard. From explaining why I’m walking behind him with a can of Lysol© and Purell©, to why white people on television are proclaiming that “Black Lives Matter,” his young mind was already so confused by it all. So to further explain that 1st grade would now be spent at the same table where he ate his meals, I felt for him and wanted to be sure I was present going into this new year.
Every day at 1pm, Sebastian’s first grade class meets for what’s called “Writer’s Workshop.” You can imagine, that for someone who loves to write, this would be my favorite class (I often feel as though I’m a student in Mrs. Diaz’s class too!). My ears are a little more perked, because I’m interested in what they’re learning, as well as how he grows as a writer. Sebastian as well, seems to perk up when it’s time to create his narratives. To watch the consternation on his face, brings a smile to mine every day. Each day, I notice how these first graders work to find their voice within their stories. The pride illustrated through neatly written sentences about the first time they went on vacation or rode a bike is outstanding. Their little hands shoot up, when asked to share their work with their classmates. I watch my son, as he sits at the table thinking of what to write. He sharpens his pencil and finds a clean page (I smile because we’re alike in that he likes to write with a sharpened pencil too). I’m proud each time he clears his throat to share his work.
I would have never guessed that I’d re-discover my voice and my passion for writing from watching a group of 5 and 6-year old children. I’d never guess that my inspiration would come from being present in a 1st grade writing class. I figured, at most, I’d see him he grow as a writer and be able to encourage and assist with that process. But what happens each and every day, is that I am the one encouraged. I’m encouraged write. I’m inspired to confidently share what I write and JustKayRenee.com is me “clearing my throat” to share with you all.
So, here I write sitting across from Sebastian in his 1st grade Writers Workshop. He looks up at me, smiles — “Mom, are you ready to write?” and I am. That fear I once felt with settling down to start my blog is gone because of the inspiration I drew from he and his classmates.
What I know is that inspiration can and will come from the places that you may least expect, but only if you’re mindful enough to remain present.
Be present.
Get Inspired.