Parents: What do you think are the most important qualities in a teacher?

[XOEnterprises]

I'm thinking about becoming an elementary school teacher-the younger, the better, so probably kindergarten up to second or third grade. I was just wondering what parents would like to see in the people teaching their children, so I know if I'd really "fit" and work as a teacher.

Thanks!

[Lyric]

1. Flexible teaching style, creativity.

The best teachers don't try to mold kids into a predetermined, uniform shape--they adjust themselves, their methods, and even their curricula to help better connect with kids who learn differently or at different speeds. They do this without resenting it or considering it an unfair burden; these are not the days of our parents, after all, and new times call for new ways of teaching. The old disciplinarian stereotype is no longer effective in today's educational environment.

That has been my experience--both as a gifted child, and as the parent of a normal one with a few interesting quirks.

:hi:

[XOEnterprises]

2. Oh, dear me, I could never be that old schoolmarm stereotype.

I mean, if it came down to it, I'd keep order, but part of the reason I'm trying to stay away from high school is that I can't be that strict. I was just joking to my boyfriend I'd probably end up crying if I had to tell a child he or she was falling behind. I can't even imagine wanting to bark out orders to a bunch of little kids.

That does give me some interesting things to think about, thank you! :-)