Currently, I am attempting to write an article about some strategies to develop social emotional skills in children in the classroom. Why? Because the need is great since the skills are lacking or nonexistent. The reasons are many, but that is not the point of my post today.
Spending quality time with Tatum daily definitely contributes to her emotional IQ. I can navigate her through the roller coaster of emotions that flood her newly forming brain. Moreover, the people we come in contact with daily adds to her ability to be kind, patient, and caring. She is learning to share, say thank you and please and even compliment! Just this morning, a gentleman came to our home to measure for window coverings, and she said, “I like your hat!” She also kept quiet and kept her needs to herself until he left. But this does not come from the quality time I spend with her, I would surmise. It’s the quantity. And this is what is lacking in today’s parenting AND why, perhaps, children are entering the classroom with little or no ability to be able to communicate or be empathetic.
Case in point in music class today, she had to witness some major misbehavior by one boy, and it did not even phase her. Luckily I was there to talk to her about it and share that this is not how we should behave. 
She merely continued to bang her drum and follow directions. Of course we are as playful as can be in the class. Gosh, I don’t want to produce a perfect robot! But, I do expect her to listen when it’s time to listen and play when it’s time to play. This meant rocket time afterwards so she could blast off into space. 
The day only got better as we hit the grocery store only to see her bestie, Robert. It was like a scene from Love Story as they ran to each others’ open arms and proceeded to maul each other with kisses in the produce section. This lead to dancing and being silly, and the whole place enjoyed their goofiness.
I figured I’d capitalize on her joy today, and we’d sit down for a quick puzzle. Again, the time I spend with her is not only teaching her navigation through life, but can be sprinkled with learning as well. Sticking it in our day without her realizing she is doing “work”, she thinks it is just plain fun!
The health of our children depends on parents stepping it up and making time for their kids. Our future as a country rests on their shoulders, and the teachers cannot do all of the work. I will continue to pray for our children, the teachers, and the parents who can help make the difference.