Auntie Knows Best
I’m going to let you in on a little secret that all teachers know and most parents don’t want to admit – lots of kids learn better from people OTHER than their parents. Oh, don’t get me wrong, parents teach their kids oodles of skills and many do an excellent job of home schooling their own children. When it comes to many things, though, an auntie is the perfect person for the job.
Children usually look up to their relatives and often think of them as experts in many areas – whether you try to or not, your nieces and nephews probably think you know EVERYTHING. This can be an advantage when a child is balking at trying something new – the dynamic between a parent and child can often lead to frustration and tears when it comes to things like learning to tie shoes, ride a bike, or even drive a car!
Teachers and daycare providers see this in school all of the time, and I’m sure you too have had the opportunity to teach your niece or nephew something new. If the child’s parent expresses frustration at progress not being made, gently offer your help – many parents would be thrilled that someone is willing to throw their hat in the ring.
Aunts Take Over Where Parents Leave off
Of course, there are some things that parents want to teach on their own, and that’s something that needs to be discussed. If Dad has been waiting for years to teach Sam to ride a bike and you do so when the kids are at your house, there could be some very hurt feelings. However, if Mom has been trying to teach Emma how to tie her shoes for months and it’s just ending in fights and tears, Mom might be more than willing to hand the task over to you.
Not sure how to begin? Well, make sure to approach any learning opportunity with an open mind and gentle tone. Enthusiasm is key and patience is a must – this is one of the skills that good teachers the world over have mastered. “Try and try again” must be your refrain and criticism should be nowhere around. A long driving lesson session deserves a short shopping trip at the end and a shoe-tying marathon probably earns a fun snack and giggle episode.
You have Skills to Share
How about more specific tasks, like the ones you do every day at your job? These are unique skills that you bring to your relationship and can surely benefit your nieces and nephews. For example, I used to teach keyboarding (typing) to elementary school students. My sister made a comment that her girls really needed to learn this skill and that was my opportunity! I had a chance to bond with my nieces and share a unique lifelong skill that would benefit them in school and beyond. The girls loved getting the time with Aunt Kate and it gives us an activity to do together every time I visit them.
So, think of your skills and evaluate what the kids in your life could benefit from and don’t be afraid to be the teacher! Remember, in the eyes of these children, you are an expert – you have so many skills and tons of patience to offer.
Please use the Comments section below to tell us who you have taught your niece or nephew.