First Day of School: Embracing Independence and Confidence

Just like her mom, she was smaller than the other kids, and I just sat there thinking, Oh God, she is TOO SMALL FOR THIS! I felt better when she came running to the car at pick up time, grinning from ear to ear, that boy sure got his he thought he could hit me because I'm a girl but nope, nope, nope. She had started her martial arts training at the same age as her brother, and their confidence was growing with each passing day.

Two days before school began, she was anxious and apprehensive. I talked with her, reminding her how much she would learn, and new friends she would meet. I was happy for her new foray into her young independence at the same time that I was anxious and apprehensive on her behalf.

Then it was the morning of the first day, and she was up long before her regular time, checking her clothes for that first day. I was astounded by her sudden enthusiasm. I was very pleased she found herself feeling quite independent and ready for her new adventure. I was so excited for her yet I felt concerned and a little bit lost myself. But I kept myself moving along her happy path.

Beginning of the New Chapter

It turned out to be a terrific day. A poignant moment. He was prepared and excited to go. He had met his teacher and been in the classroom. I did not make a fuss so as not to make him anxious. But I must admit, it was the first time my house was empty all day in five years. So, I rather enjoyed that new feeling.

As the day approached, I felt a mix of emotions: excited, happy, and worried. I was relieved that she would start first grade and happy that she was also ready for a new adventure. However, I was worried that this was her first time away from me for so long, and anxious to know her day and how her teachers viewed her. I wondered if she had made any friends and hoped that the other kids wouldn't be mean to her.

Support and Comfort

During pick-up, she came running, smiling, and couldn't wait to tell me about her first day. Her teacher came and thanked me, and I was taken aback. She called her the most polite, well-mannered young lady and told me she was the best behaved student ever. Her teacher had the privilege of teaching her, and I said, Welcome is all I said. We left to get ice cream, and she excitedly talked about her first day. It was really wonderful, the greatest of times in my life.