Only logged in members can reply and interact with the post.
Join SimilarWorlds for FREE »

I Need to Vent

So I just found out at the last minute that I am in charge of instructing two kids' art classes at the art store I work at tomorrow. I have no experience in teaching or children, and the managers never bothered to ask me this, either. Apparently, I'm substituting for our usual instructor. She can't do it because her child's b-day party is tomorrow. I don't know what we're making or how to make it, how many children are coming per class, if they'll bring the art supplies, if the store provides them, or if I have to buy them (I hope not, that's expensive and I've seen our knitting instructor buy class supplies). I've been scheduled to do this since last Thursday but no one bothered to tell me so that I'd be prepared for all of this. I asked questions and for advice but I was just told to come in early tomorrow to read the instructions and practice making the projects, but the problem is that they give the usual instructor all the answers and instructions for the projects a week ahead so that she can practice making it before teaching the kids. This feels very unfair to me, and perhaps I'm overreacting but I feel screwed over. Would it have hurt so much to ask me if I could do it, or if I even have the skills for it? One of the managers said she'll help out if needed but she's kinda new to our store. But at the same time, she's a grandmother so maybe she'd be a great help when I need her. I don't know what to expect at all and I'm panicking! What do I do???
It sounds like fun :) although I can understand the intimidation and frustration with the last-minute announcement... I think you will find when you arrive tomorrow that it's not as bad as you thought. (And even if it goes the worst it possibly could, what's the worst that could happen?? ... Don't dwell on that answer lol.)

You will have plenty of art materials. You will have kids eager for any kind of positive attention and activity. The best you can do is bring your genuine cheer (or fabricate some, to get started) and try your best. I'm absolutely confident in your abilities to make the class fun and educational for everyone--so are your employers, because they wouldn't have thrown you into this if they didn't think you would do a fantastic job. Good luck! :) This is a very positive opportunity for growth.
GlamGirl · F
Take a breath. Everything will be okay. Ask if they can give you the instructions and supplies tonight, so you can familiarize yourself with everything. Chances are, the projects will be pretty simple. I have taught many kids’ art classes. They are happy with anything. They just want to have fun. If you have to wing it, wing it. Explain to parents, you were pulled in last minute, if there is an issue, and that way they will cut you some slack if you are learning on the fly. Most importantly, have fun. If you do, the kids will, and they won’t care if their project comes out perfectly. You’ll be fabulous!
GeniUs · 56-60, M
Keep a sense of humour, if you make a mess of it admit it and say things like, 'I'm sure yours will look much better than this.' Praise them even if it doesn't look great. Try and enjoy yourself and who knows? You might have a great time.
Remember that they are kids and also not expert. Don't let on it's freaking you out. You are calm, cool and collected, so unflappable they oughta make you manager! Get in there early and read the directions and make them pay you for the time.
@Mamapolo2016 When my daughter got married, months before the day, I casually mentioned you could do flowers way cheaper by ordering them on line and putting them together yourself. She made the leap from that to thinking I had the flower thing and I learned two days before the wedding she thought I was doing bouquets for her and wedding party and flowers for church and reception. I'd never done more than stick lilacs in a vase with water.

I went into Michael's craft store and hollered at the front end, anybody here who can help me do wedding flowers and in minutes two women, one an interior decorator and the other a wedding planner were dragging me through the store pointing at stuff. "Buy that. Three of those. A half pound of that..."

The flowers got raves.
zeeva70 · F
How did things turn out?

 
Post Comment