Lessons I have learnt from kids.

I have always loved being around children. Given that I've wanted to be a teacher since I can remember, this comes as no surprise. I've been babysitting since I was 12 years old and have always found a way to be around kids wherever I am. Especially lately, kids have given me an avenue for getting away with acting like a kid again myself: being silly, running around in my sock-feet and sliding on the hardwood floors, talking in silly voices, watching "PG" rated movies, and reading books that have pictures on every page.

It wasn't until just a few days ago that I realized how much I learn from being around kids. Maybe "learn" isn't the right word here. Maybe I mean "remember." I'm sure I once saw the world the way they do, but years of experiences later, it's sometimes hard to remember some of the simplest yet most profound things about life that kids seem to have such a sound grasp on. And even though, I may have forgotten, seeing the world through their little eyes is such a refreshing reminder of some universal truths.

1. Say "Please" and "Thank you" as much as possible.
2. When you're tired, rest. If you need to sleep but don't want to, you'll most likely just end up getting yourself in trouble or making a mess... or both.
3. Apologizing is never easy. Especially when you mean it.
4. It's always better to just walk away. Giving mean looks as you do so can be very satisfying, though.
5. Being honest is hard, but earning back someone's trust after you've lied is harder.
6. If you want it bad enough, you will FIND a way to reach it.
7. Take care of your second chance. There won't be a third.
8. If someone is mean to you, don't play with them. They're not your friend. Nor do you want them to be.
9. It's not okay to laugh at someone's misfortune. Quite frankly, it hurts their feelings and you wouldn't like it if you knew they were laughing at you.
10. Hugs fix everything. 
11. You never know when there's a monster under your bed. Better be careful... just in case.
12. Dessert always makes a bad day better.
13. There are just some things that only a Mom can do. 
14. Crying is not a sign that you are not brave.
15. 30 minutes can be the longest period of time in the world or the quickest. It all depends on how you look at it. 30 minutes at the park is way different than 30 minutes in time-out.
16. Take your time and do it right the first time. It will still take less time than if you have to do it over.
17. Eat your vegetables or you'll end up a cranky, old villain in a Disney movie.
18. Most things aren't that complicated until grown ups make them that way.