Kindergarten Observation: Let the Madness Begin

I had my first glimpse of my kindergarten kids and classroom today. I observed Mike, in his final real lesson with the Cats class. It's a Xiaoban (small class) so the kids are only 3-4 years old and heartbreakingly adorable. I was glad to have the observation if only to have some time just to stare at the kids thinking how cure they are! They seem to be really well-behaved for the most part, and Mike gave me the run down on the kids who get a little hyper-active every now and again. They warmed up to me pretty quickly and before I left today they all said, "Goodbye, Teacher Cassie!" Too cute!

I haven't quite figured out the books or how to prep for class yet, but I'm not too worried since the same lesson that would be taught in one day in and older kids class (say something like the one I have with my youngest students--7-8 year olds) is taught in a week to these kids. The day is broken up into tiny bite-sized pieces too, and since they are so young, it's really more about teaching them not to hit their friends and share in English, than it is teaching them hardcore grammar.

Mike later asked me if I was still keen on Kindy and I have to say that I'm more excited than ever. I wasn't sure if I'd like it and I know it's going to be tiring, but I took one look at them and it was all over! I picked up some good tips from Mike, and I just need to learn how to keep them interested in what I'm doing. This may prove to be a task harder than it seems...