I have been privileged to step into my co-worker's role temporarily, teaching Pre-K 4 while she welcomes her beautiful new baby into the world. 

This experience has presented a rewarding challenge, requiring me to utilize various observational skills and cultivate curiosity about the behaviors and temperaments of the children. I often find myself asking, “What does this particular child need right now? How can I ensure that the environment is rich for the other teachers in their life to plant seeds of learning? How can I help them grow?” This foundational period in a child's life is critical. 

As I reflect on my experiences in the Early Childhood Workshops at The Saint Constantine School and my training in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, I find clarity in these questions. I am reminded that, first and foremost, I must pray for the children God has entrusted to me during this brief time. Additionally, I can guide them in enriching their “soil” by focusing on rhythms, virtues, and habit formation. 

One of the reasons I am so passionate about this school is our commitment to integrating the best aspects of various educational philosophies—Waldorf, Charlotte Mason, Montessori—and, most importantly, our Christian faith. 

This approach aligns with Rudolf Steiner’s belief that “one can ascend to a higher development only by bringing rhythm and repetition into one's life. Rhythm holds sway in all nature.” By incorporating rhythm and consistency into our teaching, we help foster holistic growth in the children. 

Furthermore, Charlotte Mason wisely noted that “every day, every hour, the parents (teachers) are either passively or actively forming those habits in their children upon which, more than upon anything else, future character and conduct depend.” This understanding emphasizes the profound impact we have as educators in shaping not only academic skills but also the character of our students. 

In light of this, I am reminded of the scripture from 2 Peter 1:5-8: “For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” This passage underscores the importance of cultivating virtues that enrich both our lives and the lives of the children we teach. 

I am deeply grateful to be part of a school where teachers are not solely focused on academic achievement, but also genuinely care for the souls of their students.