Beneath the Wraps

                This morning Ally decided that she would sit in Grandpa ’ s chair – even though theoretically it is the best choice for him as it is close to the stove.  He should have not given into her – but wanted to make peace apparently.  He had already confided in me that he thought she was spoiled.  I don ’ t know how much of that is giving in to her and how much is giving in to the Kabuki syndrome or whatever other illnesses arise.           He asked her how many eggs she wanted.   She claimed two which he said he would do just one at a time for her.   But he gave her both – none of which she ate.   She did try her sausage but said it was spicy – which I agree.   I am not fond of that sausage.   Clair usually sits next to her to monitor her feeding but as Ally was sitting in Grandp a ’s chair and Grandpa was sitting in Clair ’ s, Ally and Clair were not s...

                I believe it was Thursday when the kindergarten celebrated the 100 th day of school.   They had used 100 beans to fill in the number 100 on a paper and glued their beans in place.   I wasn’t there for that part.   I saw their papers set aside to dry.             It had rained on Sunday.   I’m assuming that the rain chased the fog away as there was none impairing my vision during yesterday’s drive.   It was cold and the sun remained hidden and so was not blinded as I approached any off the exits.               First class: 7 th grade math.   17 students who for the most part are respectful to the instructor and pay attention to what she is doing on the board – except for two who constantly visit.   I can’t stand between them as there are...

           For the last two days I’ve accepted work assignments from two different schools to fill in for aides who have been given the assignment to keep an eye on specific students.   I feel for the students who are trying their best but allow themselves to get distracted by the one who is “unique” or has “special needs” and may be treated with “kid gloves” when they, themselves are not and wonder why a certain classmate is allowed to get away with things that they cannot.           I understand the need to allow a “special needs” to have the same opportunity as those who are considered the norm.   I think it equally important for the “norm” to be exposed to “special needs” as they learn about discipline, social skills and other things that are not a part of academics but still need to be learned.   But at whose expense?           Though the ...