"The Preschool Constellation: Mapping My Way Back to Teaching"

When the Littlest Learners Taught Me to Dream Again

Twenty years ago, I stepped away from the workforce to raise my children. I poured my heart into motherhood—nurturing, guiding, and growing right alongside my kids. I never imagined I’d return to work, let alone become a student again. But here I am, chasing my teaching certificate with a backpack full of courage and a heart full of purpose.

It all started with substitute teaching.

I signed up thinking it would be a flexible way to ease back into the professional world. I’d test the waters, maybe help out in a few classrooms, and see where it led. What I didn’t expect was to fall head-over-heels in love with preschool.

The Preschool Pivot

My first few sub jobs were scattered across grade levels, but the preschool rooms kept calling me back. There was something magical about those tiny humans—so curious, so honest, so full of potential.

I found myself drawn to their routines, their questions, their joy. I started learning their rhythms: how transitions worked, how visual schedules calmed nerves, how movement breaks turned chaos into focus.

I wasn’t just surviving the day—I was thriving in it.

After a full year of subbing, mostly with preschoolers, I realized something big: this wasn’t just a job. It was a calling. And that’s when I knew I had to go back to school—not for them, but for me.

Relearning How to Learn

Returning to student life after two decades away was humbling. I had to relearn how to write academic papers, navigate online platforms, and manage deadlines. I’d be lying if I said it was easy. There were nights I stared at my laptop wondering what I’d gotten myself into.

But every time I felt doubt creep in, I thought about those preschoolers. I thought about the way they looked at me when I helped them zip their coats or read their favorite story. I thought about the way they made me feel—capable, needed, inspired.

And slowly, I started to believe in myself again.

Juggling Roles, Finding Balance

Being a working mom and a student is no joke. I still pack lunches, fold laundry, and manage family life. But now I also write reflections, attend virtual classes, and build lesson plans. It’s a lot. But it’s worth it.

I’ve learned to lean on routines, visual aids, and transition strategies—not just for my students, but for myself. I’ve learned that growth doesn’t come from perfection—it comes from showing up, even when you’re tired, even when you’re scared.

Why I’m Sharing This

If you’re a mom who’s been out of the workforce for years, wondering if it’s too late to chase a dream—hear me clearly: it’s not.

You have wisdom, patience, and perspective that classrooms desperately need. You have stories to tell, lessons to teach, and love to give. And if preschoolers can help me find my passion, maybe they can help you find yours too.

🌠 Reflection Prompt

Think back to a moment when someone younger—maybe a child, a student, or even a peer—helped you see yourself differently.
What did they reflect back to you?
What part of yourself did they help you rediscover?

Write it down. That spark might be your next constellation.