‘Oh, the places you’ll go’… it’s hard not to smile when reminded of the rhythmic words of Dr Seuss. Whilst he may be considered crazy by some, outrageous by others, there is a bold message which can be taken from his books, a message that may be interpreted differently depending on your age.
As a child reading ‘Oh, the Places You’ll Go’, I focused on the elements of adventure and the wonderful places Seuss described. As an adult, reading the story to my own children, my focus shifted to the story’s message within the zany rhymes. I realised that it was my role to bestow on my kids an awareness of what lies ahead. As a parent, it was up to me to instil values in my children which would allow them to grow to understand that they are their own being, that they ultimately control their journey.
This message not only resonates with me as a parent, but also as a teacher. My role as a ‘teacher’ is more than improving students’ literacy skills, increasing knowledge and furthering abilities. It is up to me to prepare my students for what lies ahead, to instil values which will allow them to grow and reach the understanding that it is themselves who control their journey.
The old adage ‘no one else can do it for you‘ rings true in the classroom everyday. It is a student’s own self awareness, motivation and focus which will ultimately control their journey. I am merely here to help them on their way…
“Today is your day!
Your mountain is waiting.
So…get on your way!”
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