A tree is a universal and natural element for teaching young children. It is almighty; the one thing that represents birth, life and death, seasons, colors, beauty, divergence, and wonder. That list alone is startling, yet just the tip of the iceberg (or the treetop).
Children are grounded in nature. We adults are, too. And, it’s the tree that embodies all that nature teaches us. No wonder it’s such a powerful symbol.
On a visit to Asheville, NC I purchased this tree from Mountain Roots Studio. It spoke to me; from the roots, to the twisted, gnarly trunk, to the open branches. I felt like this tree represented my life and my teaching. I began laying roots and connecting with young children over thirty years ago. The decades have been filled with my learning. The big knots on the trunk represent landmarks where I felt I made a difference; reading-aloud, “Gloria”, introducing art and music, storytelling… The branches explode, as hundreds and hundreds of children have ‘taken off’, and soared after they left my classroom. And, there is the kite, the symbol that represents roots to wings.
How profound that a tree can speak the message of life, certainly my life.
I brought this tree back to school and it hangs in the hallway for families and visitors to see. Teachers understand. They feel the same way. Interestingly, the kite is also the logo at Groton Community School. A plaque beneath the roots of the tree reads:
Donated by the Fitzkee Family in Celebration of Jennie’s Dedication to GCS since 1984.
The new school year begins tomorrow. I will meet another group of children and have the opportunity to grow another root or two within my own tree. Perhaps those children will feed on the roots and grow their branches in years to come.
That’s what I do!
Jennie
A Teacher's Reflections 
Wonderful post, Jennie.
Thank you!
Beautiful post, Jennie. Best of wishes for an amazing school year, my friend!
Many thanks, Tanya!
Very much enjoyed this post!
Thank you!
Beautiful symbolism 🙂
Thank you!
Beautiful, purposeful imagery! What a great way to show the effect we can have throughout the years.
Thank you for your kind words! I feel the same way.
Great post Jennie…is that some kind of a tradition? If it is, that’s really wonderful! May younhave another wonderful year at school. ☺
Thanks, Nina! It’s not a tradition, just how I see this tree (most trees) as quite symbolic.
How wonderful, what a positive symbol 🙂
Thank you!
Have a fantastic school year! I love your tree post.
Many thanks!
Wow! This is a wonderful gift to the school and I think you could write a poem with many of these lovely thoughts, Jennie. It is already heart-warming and spiritual in tone and poetic thoughts! ❤ I am amazed you were able to part from this beautiful symbol.
A poem… what an excellent idea! I felt it needed to be seen and shared with many other people, as the message is so meaningful.
Beautiful post. I used trees quite a bit in counseling children. We created memory trees for friends and family that had passed away with each leaf bearing a child’s memory, and we made comfort trees with each leaf bearing an idea for self-comfort and calming. They are wonderful symbols. How lovely that your trees hangs in your school for all to enjoy 🙂
Thank you for the wonderful, uplifting post. Wishing you a great school year!
You are welcome!
I ❤ your tree and its meaning! I'm trying to visualize what size it might be. Is it attached to the dark background board and hung as a 3D picture? Or is it bigger and that is the wall behind it? The kite adds just the right splash of color and message.
Just so beautiful!!! 🙂
Thank you! Glad you liked it.
Beautiful!
Thank you!
Beautiful way you start off your year, love the positive outlook, hoping your school year is amazing
Thank you so much!
Wow!
Thank you!