Being a Parent Educator for the Jump Start program is similar to the role I had as a classroom teacher in some aspects. I have the opportunity to impact the lives of children. I am able to connect and bond with parents and still keep the child’s best interest at the forefront. The hardest part about leaving the classroom is not being able to work directly with students on a daily basis. I looked forward to my work day because the students made my day exciting and unpredictable.
The hardest part about being a Parent Educator is remembering that the parent is the teacher during the visit and not me. Coming from an educational background, that can be very challenging.
The best part about being a Parent Educator is that I am able to interact directly with the parents and support them in their role as their child’s first teacher. I love the home visiting component because it allows me to feel like part of the family. I really enjoy the fact that I am able to be there to listen and support the parents; helping them set goals for themselves as well as their children. I am eager to witness the family’s growth over the course of time!
