Can You Cover Your Arms Up Please, Dave?
This was asked by one of my line managers as I have both arms covered in tattoos.
My response was, ‘Why? How will it affect my teaching?” This was followed by an awkward silence. I did say that if I really needed to I would, but I didn’t understand the reason behind it.
I was told not to worry about it and wasn’t asked to again.
I understand that some people feel that tattoos may look unprofessional or suit their brand. Whilst I don’t agree with this in any way, shape or form, I respect that people have their own opinions.
If a tattoo was offensive or inappropriate, then of course it must be covered in any situation but especially when working with children.
I love tattoos and body art. I think it’s a great way of expressing yourself and showing your personality. I appreciate they’re not for everyone but I love them!
领英推荐
I think it’s vital that we encourage children to be free spirits and to express themselves in whichever way they see fit. Before anyone makes the claim, I’m not saying children should have tattoos! But I do think it's important that they understand that it’s a form of self-expression.
Some people like to sing, some people draw, some play sports, some read books and some get tattoos amongst many more other things!
One thing that I will never get my head around is that people think teachers or coaches working with children should not have tattoos on show.
Believe it or not, I’ve met many teachers who have tattoos and they are fantastic at their jobs. I’ve also met people in the sector without tattoos, and I must mention with tattoos, who, if I’m being brutally honest, I wouldn’t want them teaching my son.
The person behind the tattoo will always have a greater effect on a child’s development than the art on their skin. Don't judge them by their tattoos, judge them by the impact they make on your child.
Lead Composite Technician at Hill Helicopters, Husband, Father of 4
2 年I agree mate , my arms are covered too. I have at times dressed to cover my arms mindful of what people think, being 6ft 3 plus shaven headed, does and can paint the wrong impression with tattoo's to dome people. But if people ask me about my tattoo's, they'll find that actually they are the story of my children and a tribute to them. Amazingly I haven't had my arms bare yet at any of my FFF sessions to date. Mainly because it's cold lol, but because I feel I don't want my image to put parents off? Silly I know because once people get to know me they'll see the type of person I am anyway. I've been to parents evenings and talked with young teachers with tattoo's, even on their necks this shouldn't matter it's what they are like with you're children and how they teach not what they look like. After all their are plenty of non tattooed people out there doing a really bad job of coaching or teaching children the wrong way and it's not because they don't have tattoo's!