This is a Flashback post! Somehow, I never published it, but seeing as school starts this month, it’s quite appropriate. Not to mention it’s filled with memories for me. This still applies to everyone’s first day at school. Enjoy!Our son just started Kindergarten. It was really exciting! I didn’t cry, but was amazed by the flashbacks of when I was little girl in school. I loved to learn. It was great to be with other kids. Kindergarten was filled with playtime.
Kindergarten sure isn’t playtime anymore. And everyone doesn’t have the same experience anymore either. Previously, regulated daycares & pre-K classes didn’t exist. As for my son, he has been in daycare since he was 3 months old. You’d think he’d be ready. But it’s just as hard for him as the other kids who have stay at home mommies. He had to say goodbye to his old routine, his old friends, his old teachers, basically to the life he knew for over 5 years. Now, playtime is over; it’s learning time with a little bit of playtime. After school, there’s the bus ride to daycare too. He has a long day. That’s hard on anybody.
Did I mention it’s hard on us too? No one likes change. And this was a lot of change. This house wakes up earlier. He has to eat breakfast within a certain timeframe. Lunch bags need to be prepared. How is a 5 year old going to carry a backpack, a lunch bag & a snack bag? How is he going to put it all up, repack stuff, coordinate all those little things? I don’t know; but it’s been done by others for years. It’s just my turn this time.
Technology has changed as well in schools. My son’s teacher has his homework schedule on her blog which is very convenient. She also offers communication via email. Remember when it used to only be notes and/or phone calls? Even the PTA is modernized. The PTA has its own website with many helpful links. They even have a Facebook page. If we want to know what the PTA school functions are, we may refer to the website and Facebook. For example, Family Bingo Night was run by the PTA with details online. Relying on technology, a lot can be accomplished. I must say, I’m amazed that this school is using technology as a part of communication, not a replacement for it. It’s a public school that has family at its heart.
Despite all the changes, there is one thing that doesn’t change … the human experience. Letting go isn’t easy. Trusting others to teach your kids & care for them isn’t easy either.
Yet, somehow, we are surviving. He’s starting to make friends, but it’s not as easy as in daycare. And he feels it. Positive affirmations and pep talks are given. Reviewing the day, homework, and coaching are done. Clearly, our roles have expanded. I must admit I’m feeling more tired than before. Great news is that he is excited. In the end, that’s all that matters.
So, this Pediatrician, this Mommy, is going through growing pains along with my patients’ moms. It’s nice to bond with families at this special time in our children’s lives. It’s nice to share in the difficult times and the joyous ones as well. After all, being a parent is the toughest and most rewarding job of all.
Here’s a helpful resource. Being prepared for your child’s first day of school with this checklist should help to minimize your stress (http://bit.ly/1xGZO8E).
