The Power of Patience

My name is Hailey Gold and I was honored to be a part of the TAP Program at Beth Tikvah B’nai Jeshurun. I had the privilege of working with kids Pre-K through 2nd grade, I have learned so much about how to support kids in a classroom. One of the biggest things I’ve learned is that no matter how a child is behaving, it always means something. Whether they are upset, quiet, or acting out, there is usually a reason behind it. Instead of just reacting to what I see, I’ve learned to slow down, be patient, and try to understand what they might be feeling.

Being in the classroom has helped me grow in many ways. I’ve become more patient, calm, and understanding, especially when kids are having a hard time. I try to make sure every child feels safe and supported. I’ve also learned that you can’t always force a child to talk or fix a situation right away. Sometimes the most important thing you can do is just be there for them and let them come to you when they are ready.

One experience that really stood out to me was when a student was hiding under a table with his head in his arms and didn’t want to talk to anyone. Instead of pressuring him, I stayed nearby so he knew I was there for him. After some time, he started to feel more comfortable, and when he was ready, I helped him step outside so we could talk. I learned that another student had been swinging a scarf around and accidentally hitting others, which made him feel upset. I talked to that student and helped them understand how their actions were affecting others. After that, the situation improved, and the student who had been under the table felt much calmer and more comfortable.

Overall, I’ve learned a lot through this experience, and I’ve really enjoyed being part of it. It has helped me become more confident and understanding when working with kids. I am really looking forward to graduating and using the skills I’ve learned in future classrooms so I can continue helping kids feel safe, supported, and understood.