first graders are...

• happy, excited, and eager to embrace all the world has to offer
• messy. snot and boogers don't seem to bother them. in fact, some of them seem to really enjoy having that stuff on their fingers.
• cuddly. i couldn't count the number of hugs i get each day. 1st graders are not at all passive aggressive about their need for affection, they just get up, walk toward me and give me a big, massive bear hug. even in the middle of a math lesson : )
• not always interested in sharing. i've heard my share of arguments about "my crayon!" "no, my crayon"... it's not like they're made of gold, kids. arguing about not sharing has been outlawed in our classroom
• not shy to revel in their glory. one of my favorite things to tell my kids after they've done something great: "wow. i'm so proud of you. you must be so proud of yourself, eh?" and always always my kids give me a grin as bright as the sun and nod their head with pure delight. love it.
• eager to be first. first in line, first to go to the bathroom, first to get their paper, first to eat lunch. first, first, first.
• peacemakers. when there is conflict in the classroom, i encourage kids to "talk through their problems". they are quick to forgive, hug, and be friends again grudge-free. if only adults emulated first graders in the way they forgave..
• funny. man, oh man, the things first graders say. i think i crack up at least once a day.
• "improv-ers". they like to raise their hand without having any clue what the question is or what their answer will be. I could ask my kids to explain why 'e=mc squared' and i'm 99% sure at least 7 kids would raise their hand and fumble their way through a contrived explanation.
• sweet hearted, innocent, and brave little people. they are sensitive to the world around them and are vastly aware of the injustice of the world. they desire to see good around them and are not afraid to point out wrongdoings. their big hearts are constantly churning and changing by their daily experiences.
• my teachers. they teach me something every day.