This past semester in Lifespan Human Development has been more enlightening than I could have ever thought possible. It was one of my favorite classes. As a mother of five children I did not think I would learn much about infants, toddlers or adolescents, was I ever wrong. I learned why my two year old acts the way he does, why he has tantrums and how he can change his demeanor so quickly. I learned why my six year old wants to be a dragon when she grows up, and why my pre-teen and teen are so emotional.

Prior to taking this course I was terrified of my children becoming teenagers. My oldest is just a few months away from turning 13 and my oldest daughter is now 11. I knew puberty played a big part in their emotions, now I understand so much more why they are the way they are. I am not so terrified of them growing up anymore. I know that they are healthy, normal children and that actually put me at ease with their development.

I simultaneously took EDU 1010 which is Orientation to Education, there was a lot of correlation between this class and my education class, although it was discussed more in depth in human development. I have since taking this class decided to consider teaching in a secondary setting knowing more about teenagers and brain development than I knew previously.

The observations I did in this class made it possible to see the correlation between what I was learning and how it relates to real people. They were very enlightening and fun. It was also enjoyable to see the development in my children and family.