My Favorite Communicators

I grew up during a time in my culture that it was a tradition to think that “children were better off seen and not heard”; however, my grandmother did not believe in instilling that tradition with her family. She taught our family that communication, support and togetherness would help our families succeed in majority of our endeavors. My home was a family home where my grandparents, parents, siblings, uncle, aunts, cousins and extended family members lived together and it took a lot of teamwork to learn to respect each other;  communication was the key.  

I loved the way our family took on efforts to complete tasks as a group. It provided ample times for use to talk with each other or interact with each other without using words; however, messages between us were commuted. Something as simple as cleaning the house was fascinating and engaging. We got up early on Saturday mornings to loud playing music to motivate us to accomplish our tasks. We sang and danced while one group cooked breakfast and the others cleaned every room in the house. It was so much fun. I still remember most of those songs and I continue that tradition with my family today. Then we would sit and eat together. All the children eat in the den and the adult at the dining room table.

My family believed in expressing themselves and showing emotions. I grew up in a home where it was ok to ask question and talk when adults were talking. There were several times in the day that they would sit in the dining area or den and talk about what was going on at school, in the community and with their personal life and they would include all of us regardless of the age. There was never a dumb question but occasionally we would get laughed at or teased; however, our question never went unanswered. My family believed in giving hugs, kisses and words of that expressed love.  It was a challenge to leave for school without giving hugs, kisses, or high fives to start our day. There were times that I wanted it and needed the encouragement and times that I didn’t but I gave it because it may be a day that they needed it to have a great day.

 All of this happened because my grandmother understands the value of communication and she wanted to help us learn how to exchange thoughts and ideals to enhance our lives and the lives of others. I continued that tradition with my family and it helps me and them understand each other’s feelings and understanding. It also helps me as an Educator when I listen to the children and their families. I come to them with an open mind; ready to collaborate with them to complete a goal.