Babysitting jobs inspired Amy Hanks to become teacher
Published 5:20 am Thursday, October 13, 2022
- Amy Hanks, 48, teachers pre-K students at Our Lady Immaculate Catholic School in Jennings. (Special to the American Press)
She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Development from McNeese State University and is certified in preschool and kindergarten education.
Hanks was inspired to pursue a career as a teacher after her time as a babysitter. “I always babysat children through high school and college,” she said. “I knew I wanted to do something with very young children and thought preschool would be the perfect thing for me. I could play and sing and dance all day.”
Witnessing the cognitive, social and emotional development of her students is a joyful experience for Hanks. “I love teaching young children and watching them grow and develop throughout the year,” she explained. “I love watching how they interact with each other and how excited they get when they learn something new.”
For Hanks, it is vital that early elementary education consist of play. She believes that tactile learning and social interaction are essential for young children to retain information. “Young children learn best through play. Socializing and interacting with other children their own age is more beneficial than listening to an adult for hours a day,” she said. “If you let children have fun while they are learning, they are more likely to remember what you are teaching.”
The positive impact of a quality education is undeniable, according to Hanks. “Education helps the community by helping children become the best that they can be,” she said. “When they have a positive educational experience, they are more likely to return to that community when they are adults to live and work.
While teaching, Hanks is in return enriched through her students, as they remind her to stay soft and empathetic. “My students help me by reminding me daily that I must have patience, compassion, kindness and love.”
Working with small children can be a taxing job, but the art of understanding can go a long way. Hanks stated that her advice to current and future teachers would be to “always show love and kindness to your students.” Through these positive acts, students feel safer and encouraged to put effort into their education. “When students feel loved by their teacher, they will always want to try their best.”
Outside of the classroom, Hanks is a wife, mother of 5 and soon to be grandmother of 1. In her household, family is imperative. “My husband and I are close to both of our families,” she said. “I love spending time with all of our family, going on daily vacations, reading and relaxing.”
