A Simple Lesson in Generosity from Fourth-Graders

I recently chaperoned a group of fourth graders for their end-of-the-school-year field trip to historic downtown St. Augustine, Florida. I showed up, delighted to see my daughter, and was handed a list of three boys and two girls I’d be managing.

I’ll be honest- I was a little nervous about overseeing five kids for the next eight hours!

Thankfully, my apprehension about managing five children in downtown St. Augustine faded as the day went on. I got the hang of their names and faces, and despite everyone’s tendencies to want to veer off in different directions, our group developed a sort of camaraderie.

The most intimidating part of the day was the last hour and a half of “free time.” At this time, groups were given free rein to explore St. George Street: a long cobblestone street full of tourists, clothing, soap, jewelry, and at least a dozen ice cream shops.

The parents had given their kids money to spend on souvenirs, and it had been burning holes in their pockets all day long. One thing I did not realize about fourth graders was how much they love shopping! On the other hand, the storeowners did not look thrilled to see the enthusiastic group of children heading into their shops.