Yep, he's still the king of the wild things.

I learned early on this year that first grade boys do NOT hold the teacher’s hand when walking down the hallway. The girls will, but the boys?  Never. That was one of several things this kindergarten teacher had to get used to, because in kindergarten they all fight to hold the teacher’s hand.

I also learned recently that it takes a bit of time for a first-grade class and its teacher to get back into the swing of things if the teacher has been out for five weeks after hip replacement surgery.  In other words, the kids have been wild.  Sure, they’re as excited as I am, but that excitement has caused them to forget every single classroom rule.

I spent the better part of the day reminding them (and when I say reminding them I really mean yelling) about the rules.  I had just finished a “reminder” session when I realized it was time to go to music. I lined them up and rushed them out the door.

I started out as the leader, and fell behind as they walked quickly past me.  I was watching the front of the quickly moving line, when I felt someone grab my hand.  I smiled, and glanced over to see which girl was holding my hand.   Imagine my surprise when I turned to see someone smiling up at me.

It was Max.

I laughed and ignored the hallway “no talking” rule and I listened to him talk non-stop the whole way to the music room.

Oh sure, I’ll be earning my money each day as I try to keep these spirited boys focused on learning.  But you know what?  Those kids are the very best part of each day. 

Even if they don’t always want to hold my hand.