I read a story this week about a teenaged Katherine Hepburn and her father. They were in line to go to the circus, and a family of 8 children and 2 parents were in front of them. The eight children were so excited to have their circus adventure! When the father approached the window and heard the price of admission for 8 kids and 2 adults, he did not have enough money. Mr. Hepburn reached into his pocket, dropped a $20 bill on the ground, and said to the man, "Excuse me sir, you dropped this money." The man was so grateful, as he shook the hand that saved him from disappointing his family. Katherine and her father drove home - her dad had given away the money for their admission tickets. Yet, they were happy, because they had made someone else happy. You can read the full story here https://bangladeshasf.com/a-learning-story-from-katherine-hepburn/
This story really hit home with me. Although I am not a parent, I am an older sister and an aunt, and I was a coach and teacher for more than half of my life. Children - young and old - learn from example. Children are watching everything their parents do, from the way they react to adverse situations to juggling tasks and packing lunches. Children hear the kindness toward a stranger and the anger directed at another driver. Children notice the tone of voice a parent uses toward strangers and loved ones. Parents are their children's first teachers, and those examples of parental behavior have a major influence on their children, as well as far-reaching repercussions.
I hope you will read the article, and that it will remind you that kindness matters, and that someone is always watching and learning from you.
Visit Dede's web page for complete details on her award-winning book, STUDENT TEACHING: THE INSIDE SCOOP FROM A MASTER TEACHER. Many colleges have made the book required reading. Signed copies are available www.dederittman.com Dede is also a national speaker on The Three C's for Classroom success: Confidence, communication, and Creativity; Avoiding Teacher burnout; and many other inspirational topics.
I LOVE writing. And I love writing children's books- my newest passion. Although it will be a ton of work, I am looking forward to selling my books. Since I was a secondary teacher, I know that I have much to learn about elementary students, and I will have to follow my own advice and be my genuine self. However, I also know that I am passionate about helping kids who have to wear glasses, and that GRADY GETS GLASSES sends a positive message. I am willing to work hard and do all the things that also made me a successful teacher for 37 years. I remain inspired!
Teacher friends- let me know if you want me to read GRADY GETS GLASSES at your school. I am willing to come in to discuss the creative writing process, why writing is important, and personal fulfillment through writing, along with reading my book. I would appreciate the exposure, and I would make signed copies available for purchase in your classrooms following the reading. Please email me at dederittman@gmail.com The website www.gradygetsglasses.com now has plush Grady bunnies for sale!
Connect with Dede!
Twitter @dederittman
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