Student brings toddler to class as he couldn't find a babysitter — his professor knew exactly what to do

While school classrooms are designed for academic learning, often students will be enlightened with knowledge beyond books. A heartwarming moment at Morehouse College in Atlanta unfolded after a 26-year-old student walked in with his child to class. The unusual sight had most of the classmates baffled, but not the professor. Instead, Professor Nathan Alexander offered to help the student by holding the baby for the entirety of the class so the father could take notes properly, as reported by CNN. 

On a school day, Wayne Hayer could not find a babysitter for his five-month-old daughter, Assata. He did not, however, let it interfere with his academic pursuits. Not willing to miss his important algebra class amid fast-approaching midterms, Hayer took his daughter along. Entering the classroom, he quickly explained his situation to the professor, hoping for consideration. Turns out, the responsible young father got more than he bargained for. Professor Alexander offered to hold the baby for the length of the class to help the father concentrate on the math class. 

Viral images shared by the students in the class showed the professor teaching with the baby girl strapped to his chest. He seemed unbothered by the responsibility and continued teaching effortlessly. Professor Alexander was widely lauded for his kind gesture. The small but significant effort insinuated how students may look up to their teachers for support and encouragement. “A part of my role and goal as an educator is to provide opportunities for students. We work to build a community in class,” he told CNN in March 2019. He also noted the amount of hard work his student, Hayer, puts in while taking care of his family. “He works two jobs, is a full-time student, is involved in leadership programs at school, and is a parent,” the professor noted.

Even though the viral photos spotlight him, the professor suggested that it is a “reminder” of the heights parents have to summit every day for their children. In addition, he emphasized the need for more affordable childcare services in the country. Meanwhile, the baby was a sweetheart in class. “She was really well-behaved and even started to fall asleep at the end,” Prof. Alexander said, adding that they had a ready bottle on standby, as the class enjoyed her infant energy. Morehouse College President David Thomas (@ProfThomas) marked on X, "This is about #love and #commitment. Loving our students and being committed to removing any barrier to their pursuit of excellence."

Speaking of his unique decision, Hayer, who is a senior majoring in kinesiology, said, “I was nervous to go to class. Morehouse is an all-male college, and seeing me with a baby strapped to me would make all eyes be on me.” That day, his wife, Firda, was preoccupied with errands, and the couple could not find a babysitter in time. Regardless, Hayer did not mind juggling both of his responsibilities at once. Moreover, it was a fun day at school. When his first class got canceled, Hayer and his daughter spent time at the student lounge. This was moments before the viral moment would unravel.

One student, Nick Vaughn, penned a heartfelt note about the incident on Facebook. “Not only did he teach the entire lecture with the child in his arms, but also stayed after class helping those with questions about today’s lecture with the child still in his arms, as seen in the pictures,” the student wrote. He shed light on the kind of impact Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) can have on the community. News 4 Tucson KVOA-TV (@News4TucsonKVOA) also did a story on the wholesome class moment.