By Gitty Halberstam, BCBA, LBA
School Founder
While this may ring cliche to adult ears, for children this is a loaded and exciting question. The answers which little ones pro- vide may reflect pride in their parents’ professions or simply their own interests. Either way, children do love to dream about their ‘future- selves’.
Apropos to our school’s name, our theme this month involved much thinking into the future, as children explored the topic of Careers. In signature Atidaynu-style, this topic was approached from many en- gaging (& hands-on) angles! For example, we hosted our very own Career Fair. Of
course, this was both prepared and attended by our students!
Decorative and detailed tri-fold poster displays presented practical and interesting information regarding a range of careers. Students took turns taking the stage and presenting these various jobs.
For those learners who aspire to work in a school just like ours, we even held in- terviews! Our principal, Mrs. Bazov interviewed the candidates. It was both ador- able and impressive to see how seriously the students took their job applications! Following this, students were indeed ‘hired’ for various positions within the school. And, of course, they were subsequently compensated for their work. Personalized checks were distributed, which were then deposited into each child’s credit-card system.
The topic of Careers served as a great tool in our learning; it provided children with insight into the work of so many adults around them. We likewise gained an ap- preciation for the training and efforts which go into people’s careers. The children benefited from reflecting on their own talents, strengths and interests, and what it means to take on responsibility. And of course, we made sure to explore all of these topics through fun and engaging activities!
Our Career theme certainly got us all thinking a lot. We always take delight in watch- ing the students develop and grow, and we look forward to seeing their successes in the years to come. After all, childhood aspirations can become adult achievements!