Life has been full of changes this past year and a half, and I don’t just mean because of the pandemic.  I stopped teaching at the end of April 2020 because I became a mom for the first time.  I dove headfirst into motherhood, enjoying every minute with my daughter, and taking the moment as a time to enjoy her without balancing teaching full-time too.

I spent the past school year finding classes to do with her and finishing my Masters degree.  The world still wasn’t quite normal (virtual classes had their pros and cons) and was able to connect with other moms virtually.  I loved being with my daughter and watching her explore and discover the world.  However, at times, I felt like I should be doing something else since I worked hard to get where I was professionally.  I decided to finish my Masters Degree and then reevaluate my choices and potentially find something part time.

A friend told me about The Teacher Career Coach Podcast, and I’ve enjoyed listening to episodes to learn what careers others have pursued who have left education.  I also took their quiz to see what career options exist that I could potentially transfer my skills.  So far, I’ve pursued side projects rather than purchasing their course, but I know it is an option in the future. 

After a lot of reflection I decided I missed teaching, but wanted something less demanding than teaching full time in a typical school setting.  In September, I began 3 new pursuits (and it was a little overwhelming beginning them all at the same time, which is why I’m delayed writing a blog post!).  I began teaching Sunday School and have a sweet class of 2nd graders.  This is one of my favorite age groups, and it’s reminded me how much I’ve missed it after having conversations with a baby and toddler for the past year!  I also began tutoring, which again, gives me the opportunity to teach, create resources, and connect with and support families in a 1:1 setting.

For my last pursuit, I am excited to begin teaching kids yoga classes.  I have been thinking about this option for awhile as a way to combine my love of yoga and teaching kids, I just needed to find time to finish some training.  I was finally able to complete a basic overall training, learning songs and poses great for toddlers and kids as well as some follow up courses about yoga for babies and toddlers, family yoga, Jewish yoga, and storytime yoga.  There are a lot of other interesting courses available, but I have to remember to space them out.  It’s important I get comfortable with one program first before getting certified in many different areas.

I’ve begun teaching small classes in my backyard while the weather is still nice enough to be outside.  I’m open to teaching pods at others’ houses, but have to remember to start small with this new venture.  So far my classes have been small in size, but again, I have to remember I need to start somewhere.  Many people are excited for me and interested in classes; I’ve met and interacted with many new people already.  It’s a new feeling for me to put myself out there and market and advertise, but I am learning a lot.  Currently, I’m trying to figure out what to do as the weather gets colder so I can continue safely offering classes and teaching yoga!

I’m proud of my reflections and to see where I go from here.  I hope you’ll follow along on my journey with me!