Lipreading Mom in the classroom
It was 1993 as a college sophomore when I first felt the nudging to work in a classroom. After two blasé practicums at a middle school and high school, I decided to pursue a Communication degree instead. But the nudging didn’t completely go away. Now I am a 42-year-old mom of three pursuing a long-delayed calling: to become a special education teacher for preschool-age children.
Why the delay?
In hindsight, I had to go through a hearing loss diagnosis and frequent communication frustrations with those around me to realize something. Writing about hearing loss prepared me for teaching. That passion for communicating through written words triggered a passion for speaking about hearing loss. Then that passion led to leading hearing loss and communication workshops.
And then I realized something. My favorite years as a mom thus far have been teaching my children how to communicate.
Get a person’s attention (politely) before you speak.
Look at a person when you talk.
Speak slowly.
Make each word clear.
Do whatever you can to make sure the other person understands you.
Here is that long-delayed calling: to teach young children how to communicate—whether in words, sign language, or both.
What is your calling?
Lipreading Mom 
It’s so great to hear from you. Pursue your passion, you have plenty of time. So happy to see you found a new calling. You go girl!
Thank you, Patti!
So happy for you, Shanna, as you march toward your calling. My calling is to help people find hope either through the written word or through coaching.
RJ – What a wonderful calling!
Shanna, many children will benefit from your gentle, kind teaching.
Best wishes for all of the classes you lead.
Vicki
I appreciate your kind words, Vicki.
Kudos to you Shannon for entering the Teaching Profession. It is a calling and you will be a wonderful educator. So glad you are able to follow your passion. Karen
Thank you, Karen!
Shanna, That is wonderful and I think you will be a very good teacher.
Sandy – I appreciate your support.
Still trying to find my calling! I thought it was to be a real estate agent but Ai can’t get anyone to give me a chance! Maybe I’m missing something?!?
You are making a difference, Michelle—as a wife, mom, and volunteer. I appreciate you.
Very happy to hear you will be teaching. I am in private home daycare now for over 30 years. It has been very rewarding teaching the little ones to communicate, to look at people when you speak, many first happen and it is wonderful to witness their delight. Enjoy……