It's true, Ratikala, about teachers being privy to that more than some others. I am still in touch with a couple of former students, (old souls) and when the relationship is far more about you learning from them, or at least mutual, then you know you're in special company. The ones you knew at very young age, and watched them develop into the adults they are today are the most interesting. There is something less attached (and therefore you can see better, no emotional clouding) about that.
I'm reminded too of the Tirukkural's verses on children, especially the one about that there is nothing sweeter than the prattle of children.