Preferences in Working with Different Age Groups: From Toddlers to Adults
Choosing the right age group to work with is a personal decision that depends on individual preferences, strengths, and experiences. Some professionals might find a certain age more enjoyable or rewarding than others. This article explores the author's preferences and shares valuable insights based on hands-on experience in working with children, teenagers, and adults.
Preferences in Work Settings
The author has different preferences when it comes to working with various age groups. She expresses a clear inclination towards working with younger children, especially toddlers, compared to teenagers. While younger children can be more manageable and delightful, she also acknowledges the value of engaging with adolescents and adults, each presenting unique challenges and rewards.
Working with Older Children and Adolescents
The author has had experience working with children from middle school through high school, as well as with kindergarteners. She mentions that, while she derived great satisfaction from working with middle and high school students, the transition to adulthood was ultimately driven by financial necessity and personal life changes.
Experiences with Autistic Children
Working with autistic children in middle and high school, particularly those in special education settings, provided the author with meaningful and fulfilling experiences. Despite financial challenges, she found this type of work profoundly rewarding and might have continued even without financial compensation.
Teaching Religious School
The author has also shared her experiences from teaching religious school for children aged 7 and 8. Lesson plans would often include unexpected and humorous answers, such as students believing that Moses was raped in a blanket or mistakenly thinking Moses was a ski instructor. Despite these amusing situations, the author notes that these children were both sharp and creative, and capable of grasping complex concepts.
The Value of Diversity in Educational Settings
The experiences of working with children from different age groups underscore the importance of diversifying the educational and professional environment. Exposure to younger children, teenagers, and adults can provide valuable perspectives and unique challenges that contribute to personal and professional growth.
The author concludes that everyone should consider the different age groups and embrace the opportunity to work with them to enrich their lives and professional careers. Each age group offers a distinct set of experiences and insights, making the role of a educator or paraprofessional incredibly rewarding.
Conclusion
In evaluating working preferences, the author emphasizes that the choice is highly subjective and driven by individual experiences and values. Although working with toddlers might seem more manageable, her experiences demonstrate that each age group brings unique challenges and rewards, making it essential to consider diversity in work settings.