I've been team teaching the 5-6 year olds with my wife now for about 18 months. I had previously taught the 8-9 year olds a few years back by myself (before they enforced the two teacher policy).
A couple of things happened yesterday and today that made me reflect on the good and bad of this calling. In no particular order:
Cons:
- Not being able to sleep through/play iPad games/skip priesthood and sunday school (kids require your full attention)
- Some kids can be real brats
- Getting substitutes for sundays you can't be there
- Much like exile, not knowing what is going on, any new people in the ward
- Primary songs get stuck in your head for the rest of the week (Happy, happy birthday children dear. . . going through my head right now)
Pros:
- Sunday only calling. An hour or less of prep, 45 minute lesson, 45 minutes playing reverence police, and I'm done for the week.
- Lesson prep is easy, a good story or two, a game, or a picture to color and you're set
- Having snacks during class is expected, and I get to choose what they are
- Get to know the kids and watch them grow up and develop from afar.
- some of the kids can be real angels. One little girl came up and gave me a hug after church, which just melted my heart, and made my week.