To all the Moms Out There: THANK YOU!
As you likely know, Mother’s Day was this past weekend. I am constantly reminded by how selfless so many of the world’s moms are. Last week was Teacher Appreciation Week at my school, and I cannot tell you how many mothers there were working tirelessly to cook, decorate, and greet us to thank us for the work we do for their kids. One morning, I took a moment to reflect on how lucky I am, as a teacher, to have the opportunity to work with some of the most amazing mothers to my students. They give their children everything they have, and then they try to find more. They also take their partnerships with our school very seriously. I see some of our school’s moms meeting with our principal as part of our Parent Advisory Council before 7:00 AM one day of every single week, volunteering to make copies for teachers weekly, and cheering at our soccer games (even when they don’t have kids of their own on the team). These mothers have absolutely shown all of the students and teachers at our school that they are here to help us, and that they care enough to spend their time, resources, and energy on providing whatever support to their children they can.
In addition to helping me feel supported at my job, these moms are here for their kids no matter what. When kids are struggling in school, their moms drive them to school early to get extra help from teachers. When they misbehave in school, I know I can trust that a phone call to mom will result in an apology the next day. I love being able to text my students’ moms to check in on the day and to make sure everything is going okay at home. Seeing the ways that my school’s moms support their students has reminded me of all of the amazing things my mom has done for me throughout my life. I am so lucky to have been able to lean on my mom anytime I needed a listening ear, someone to nurse me back to health, some excellent advice, someone to read my many papers and projects throughout schooling, or just a warm hug.
Especially in the disability world, many moms have given up so much to fight for everything their children need. It is the most honorable work, and I am in awe of the selflessness and humility that these mothers demonstrate when they do absolutely everything in their power to demand the best for their children. Moms, you know your children best. Continue to ask for what you know they need. Your voices matter, and we are so happy to have you by our sides to help your children reach success in all of their endeavors. Keep up the fight! Happy Mother’s Day!
(Note: I am thrilled when I see how many dads are taking a more active role in their children’s lives, and I acknowledge that though these roles are most regularly filled by women, there are many families where dads take over a lot of child-raising duties. Thanks to all of you dads, too!)
–Written by Elise Hopkins, KIT Blog Writer and Editor
Kids Included Together (KIT) is a non-profit located in San Diego, CA and Washington, DC. We help make the world a more inclusive place by providing live and online training to people who work with kids. We teach strategies, accommodations and best practices to include kids with and without disabilities in before & after school programs. Inclusive environments create stronger communities. Learn more about our work at www.KITonline.org.