It’s report card time again, and I find myself smiling when I think about how this tradition has evolved over the years. In most elementary schools, report cards are handed out quarterly, marking the rhythm of the school year. They’ve changed so much since I first began teaching. Instead of the familiar A’s, B’s, and C’s, today’s report cards focus on standards-based feedback. Teachers use codes to communicate how children are progressing on specific skills, academic areas, and learning behaviors. I’ve come to really appreciate this newer, gentler approach, it gives parents and caregivers a deeper look at how their children learn, not just what they know. It helps everyone see the whole child: their strengths, their challenges, and the progress they’re making along the way.
As a grandmother, this time of year feels extra special to me. Both of my elementary aged granddaughters received their report cards last week, and I was curious to hear how they’re doing. Of course, I already know they’re excelling. They both have such bright minds and kind hearts, a combination that makes for wonderful learners. They’re naturally curious and motivated, always asking questions, always wanting to understand why and how.
I suppose I’m not entirely objective; after all, I had the joy of teaching both girls in preschool and kindergarten. I saw their spark from the very beginning, the eagerness in their eyes when we read a new story, their delight in discovery during science explorations, and their care for others during playtime. Teaching them was one of the greatest privileges of my career and one of the sweetest chapters in my life. Now, watching them grow from those curious kindergartners into confident students fills me with pride and gratitude. Their report cards may list skills and standards, but what shines through most clearly is their love of learning, and that, to me, is the truest measure of success.
I was absolutely delighted to see how much both of my granddaughters enjoy reading. There’s something so heartwarming about children who truly love books, especially in this digital age. Winnie, my third grader, actually asked for books for Christmas this year, quite an achievement considering how much she also loves her tablet! I couldn’t help but smile at that request. It’s a reminder that, no matter how many new technologies come along, there’s still something magical about holding a real book in your hands and getting lost in a story.
This school year has placed a big emphasis on maintaining a strong home routine as well as consistency at school. I find that balance so important; children thrive when there’s rhythm and predictability in their days. It’s been a joy to watch my daughter, Cece, incorporate many of the same routines from her own childhood into her family life. I take it as a wonderful compliment that she values those traditions enough to pass them along to her children.
One of my favorites is the candlelit family dinner with cloth napkins. Even little Homer, who is almost five, is emphatic about the candles being an important part of that special time each evening. There’s something about dimming the lights, lighting a candle, and gathering together that invites calm and connection after a busy day. It’s not about perfection, it’s about presence.
Another tradition that has carried forward is sharing gratitude each day as a part of the dinner conversation. Everyone has transitioned from the hustle and bustle of school activities to the peace of being home and is ready to share parts of their day. Whether it’s for a person, a moment, or something simple like a favorite treat at lunch, taking a moment to express appreciation brings so much peace and perspective.
Winnie took her turn in telling about an occurrence in the cafeteria the other day. As a wonderfully dramatic little girl, Winnie, using her hands, demonstrated a Daddy Long Legs climbing down from his web onto her head. She then went on to show the fear of her fellow classmates as she gingerly moved the spider from her hair to a safer spot outside. Winnie knows the benefits of a Daddy Long legs in pest control this time of year with fruit flies, she also loves them and knows that they are harmless.
It warms my heart to know that my grandchildren are growing up surrounded by this rhythm of gratitude, love, and family connection, values that will serve them well all their lives.
Kate Emery General is a retired chef/restaurant owner who was born and raised in Casper, Wyoming. Kate loves her grandchildren, knitting, and watercolor painting. Kate and her husband, Matt are longtime residents of Cambridge’s West End where they enjoy swimming and bicycling.
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