Thursday, May 15, 2008

Teaching


I've just returned from an intensive training session at the Institute of Children's Literature (ICL). I took their basic course several years ago. Loved it. Loved my instructor -- my mentor, really. And I can see why after meeting the wonderful folks at ICL. Now I'll be joining them in making dreams come true. So bring me an apple! I'm ready to teach.

I've been teaching in some form or another since I was kid. I started teaching English to my friends who didn't speak it in India. I taught them bad words and incorrect meanings for hilarious results. But even with all the monkey business, I managed to teach my friends a decent amount of correct English. In high school, I continued to help ESL students (no monkey business) but also started tutoring kids in science and math. During the college years I taught organic chemistry. I was set for a career in academia but I never knew how much I'd want to stay home with my children. And I reclaimed an old love -- writing.

And as a mother, I'm never not teaching ... But I do regular teaching as well, writing and science workshops in my children's classes, writing workshops for adults who want to write for children. So I'm not surprised that my writing journey is leading me back to ICL.

The best part? I can do it in my pajamas.

*

12 comments:

Anonymous said...

Yay! Congratulations, Vijaya. You'll make a great instructor.

Bonita Pate Davis said...

Way to go Vijaya. I can't say I'm surprised that you've been invited to become an ICL instructor. You'll be great.

Bonita

Vijaya said...

Thank you. I'm excited.

Susan Sandmore said...

Congrats! So cool! Happy teaching-in-pajamas. I could teach in my pajamas, I bet. But they'd fire me. *sniff*

Bish Denham said...

I bet you'll be one of the best teachers they have. The students they give you will be soooo blessed!

Vijaya said...

Jaina, you want to try? Try throwing a lab coat over ... that worked for me :)

You ladies are sweet.
Thank you.

Stella said...

I wish I could teach in my pjs. Unfortunately, I have to get somewhat dressed up and drive 30 miles to my teaching job (school library media specialist). How exciting for you! I've enjoyed watching your journey as a writer and wish you lots of luck!

Hope I'm not intruding here.

Vijaya said...

Stella, you are not intruding. I'm happy that you stopped by. Thank you so much for your kind words. Working at home is what I love ... and I wish everybody who wanted to could. A 30 min. commute's not so bad.

Write2ignite said...

wowzers. Way to go! This is quite an accomplishment. Have fun and share all that beautiful knowledge you've got!

Ghost Girl (aka, Mary Ann) said...

This is just so fabulous! You will be such a wonderful ICL instructor! Happy teaching!

Vijaya said...

Thanks so much, ladies.

Anonymous said...

Congrats! I'm sure you'll be a great writing instructor.

-- Owl from Verla's