Kids in the age of Hope

Hi!
Well let me tell you what happened during and after Inauguration Day.

We watched the inauguration at our Center's multipurpose room. The children were free to play as usual and those that were interested in the event were allowed to sit and watch. I had seven children that stayed tuned pretty much the entire time. When PRESIDENT Obama was officially sworn in, two of my 4 year-olds meet each other in a joyful embrace. I had wonderful pictures depicting the tenderness of the moment.

Later we sat and asked the children what they had enjoyed most of the inauguration. Here are some of the answers:
"I liked the cello and the violin."
"President going up the steps, president's helicopter."
"To see the president on T.V."
"The parade."
"I like Obama's daughters."
"The dinner."
"When Barack became president."
“I liked the drums."
"His speech."

As you can see, the children do pay attention to these things. We can help them to better understand what is happening and put it into perspective for them. Indeed a teachable moment for all.

Another child made a drawing and said it was a letter for me. When I asked what the letter said, he replied: "Nilsa, I love you on this special day of Barack Obama. We're going to the gym right? To see him be president, like the boss?"

Another child made the White House out of Legos. He said to me: "The White House has an antenna so Obama and the girls can watch t.v. Also Michelle. Obama has a car and a driver to keep him safe."

So I hope you keep this momentum going. Do the right thing and tell me and others your stories.
Remember, keep smiling!
N.