There were days in school when the timetable gods were unkind.
As teachers, we were often asked to take substitution periods—to fill in for an absent colleague. It was a necessary part of school life, but on most days, I was already juggling lesson plans, corrections, and class duties. Moreover, my subjects, English, History, and Geography, compelled me to use every minute that I had. So, substitution would mean one more period for me to teach, which was exhausting.
I dreaded substitution duty. However, instead of grumbling, I decided to make it a lighthearted experience. Whenever I walked into a class for substitution, I’d announce dramatically,
“Children, I’m invisible today! You’ll have to see through me.”
Sometimes I’d say, “Oh dear, what have I got myself into!” and pull a face, which never failed to make them laugh. It became a small classroom ritual—a way to break the ice and remind everyone that even the less exciting parts of school could have a touch of fun.
I never realised how deeply the children registered these moments until one day, as I stood outside the supervisor’s room, a boy came hurrying down the corridor. He was clearly looking for a substitute teacher, clutching the class timetable in his hand. He stopped abruptly on seeing me, tilted his head, and asked with complete seriousness,
“Miss, are you visible or invisible now?”
Instinctively, I covered my face with both hands and declared,
“Invisible… invisible!”
We both burst out laughing.
That one question captured so much—their affection, their sense of play, and the way even my offhand humour had found a place in their hearts. Sometimes, the most lasting connections don’t come from lessons we plan. They spring from small, spontaneous exchanges—the kind that make teaching such a joyful, human experience.
Often, the most visible parts of teaching are the invisible bonds we create.
💭 Reflection
“Children remember not what we teach, but how we made them feel.”
For more stories, read – The Echo of My Chalk – https://amzn.in/d/gYNvIfp
15 Responses
Last line is fantastic…and such a cute article…it is now we realise how much of work it must be for u…
Thank you so much! I’m really glad you liked the last line and enjoyed the article. Yes, it does take a lot of work—but messages like yours make it feel completely worth it. 💛✨
So beautifully written, wow
Thanks for reading dear! 😊
So happy you liked it. 😊
As a teacher or a parent it is part of us to convey positive thoughts and encourage children to overcome irritation abd negativity but coming up with a new way or idea to cope up with the situation. It may sound silly but sometimes unplanned ideas become inspirational and tend to do the trick.
Absolutely true. Yes…..most unplanned ideas become the most impactful. What matters is the intention behind it and the way it connects with the child. 😄
The instance is just one light moment in my journey. 😉
Got lost in the past for a while. Those times and incidences simply came alive. In spite of the extra work required, the way you carried it looked so effortless. We could not even make out….hats off 🙂
It makes me so happy to know the memories came alive for you.
And thank you for noticing the effort — I tried my best to make everything feel smooth and natural. Your words mean more than you know. 😊✨
You write so well that the whole scene can be visualised and loved it
Thank you so much! I’m really glad the scene came alive for you. That’s the biggest compliment a writer can receive. Your words truly mean a lot. ✨💛
Wooowww… The moral applies to your story as well. A quick read but so effective.
Thank you so much! I’m really glad the message resonated with you. Your words mean a lot. ✨💛
How wonderfully playful!
Thank you! I’m glad the playfulness came through — sometimes a little sparkle is all a moment needs. 😊✨