Like me, my daughter is a very independent little girl. She is ready to take on the world with tenacity, confidence and a smile. Today was the first day of kindergarten enrollment, and along with the overachiever mom's I had to be one of the first in line.
After competing the registration process, I was invited to attend the evening's STEM project exhibit so that she could start to get familiar with the school. She was excited, wanting to explore everything and eager to know when it would be her turn to work on a project. Then it dawned on me. She is a big girl now, she is ready for the next step in her education, and I am the one that suddenly felt fearful.
"It comes down to letting go and allowing her to build her wings with me by her side."
I attempted to explore my feelings. Thought about the size of the school, the number of classrooms, the less individualized attention she will receive in a public school system... the list goes on. Ultimately, it comes down to letting go and allowing her to build her wings with me by her side - but no longer carrying her.
In talking with some of the other pre-k moms, we all had different emotions - all were valid. Here are my tips for getting your child ready for kindergarten:
1. Get yourself mentally ready
2. Make friends with the school's support staff
3. Build your kindergarten mommy network
4.
I am allowing myself to feel something I did not expect. It is part of the process of life, and the growth that comes along with change. She will always be my little girl, and I hope she still allows me to hold her hand and hug her as she enters this big world.