Finally doing the things I came here for

Guten Morgen! or how the locals say it - Morgen.

I finally got to go the the kindergarten on Wednesday. I was super excited and a little bit nervous, because I had no idea what to expect except for the photos I had seen online.
I got up extra early, woke up before my alarm, because I wanted to eliminate any chance of me being late on my first day. 

I was welcomed with open arms, briefed on their ways of doing things, and given a tour of the building. The children were a bit shy on the first day, but quickly warmed up to the idea of me being there. I found it interesting to see how differently things are done here compared to what I'm used to in Finland. It's much less strict and children have more freedom to do things their way. There still is structure and rules, but the children are encouraged to practice independence and that's why sometimes they are outside without direct supervision. Also there is no naptime for older children, which caught me off guard.

The rest of the week was observing and adjusting to their ways. Since I do know the basics of German language, and speak to the kids in my poor German, they don't really comprehend that I don't understand everything they're telling me. Which is okay, because making them feel seen and heard is much more important. Had a few hiccups along the way, like being understaffed, but I got to see how they handle those situations here.

On my free time I went on a lot of walks to get to know Bergheim a bit better. Since I'm sort of an observer by nature, I enjoyed walking, a lot. Just me, no rush or anything, noticing things that I see, smell and hear. Finding new shortcuts and seeing new streets. Looking at the buildings and appreciating the architecture.

Also worked on mastering the art of packing my purchases super quickly at grocery stores, since there really isn't much of a bagging area at the counter where you pay.

On Sunday I met up with teacher C at the Cologne Cathedral and we went in to admire it. I didn't take a lot of photos, because even though allowed, it made me feel like I was being disrespectful to the rich history and religious nature of the building.

After visiting the Kölner Dom, we went on to walk to the Cologne's Chocolate museum. Bought the tickets, I got a student discount with my Finnish student card. The museum had a very comprehensive display about the history of chocolate and the journey it goes through from the seeds to the very product we all know and love. I was so immersed on absorbing all the new information (and the little chocolate treats they give you during the stay) I sort of forgot I should've been documenting it for this blog. I did get a few photos, so here you go! I do recommend going there if you're like me and truly enjoy the "How it's made" point of view this museum offers.

For me, the first week was full of exciting new things and adapting to the way everything works on this side of Europe. Although eventful, also very tiring and I'm hoping to settle into a routine in the following weeks, without losing my sense of adventure.

It's all about balance.

Best regards,

InterReili