Not Always as Easy as Pie

As teachers, sometimes I think we take for granted that school has [probably] always come easily to us. I don't specifically remember learning to read, or being taught letter-sound correspondences. All I remember is that I loved to read and there were many times my parents would have to take my books after bedtime because I stayed up too late reading, or when I would get in trouble for reading after the teacher told us to put our materials away.

I know and understand that children with learning disabilities generally have a very hard time learning to read. I love helping people learn to do something that is difficult for them--that's why I chose learning disabilities as my minor! But sometimes it can be very frustrating when I try ten different ways to teach the letter sounds in the word 'ran' but none help the student understand. I try my hardest to be patient and accommodating when a student is having a hard day or when they are acting exceptionally hyper.

During my final two semesters at UW-Eau Claire, I hope I will take a class that can shed light on how to get through to unmotivated students. I don't think I'm alone in feeling frustrated, but sometimes it feels like I am.