Today my baby girl takes a big step towards not being a baby girl. It’s her first day of preschool.
And, while some of you might have had your kids in preschool or day-care since they were only a few months old (or even a few weeks old), this is her very first time in 3 1/2 years.
It’s a big deal for us and a big change.
For the past 3 1/2 years, she’s hasn’t just been babysat. She’s been lovingly cared for and attended to by my mother. While having family be her caregiver did have some downsides, overall it was the greatest care I could have ever hoped for. She was in the company of family and I knew she was safe. I knew she was hugged, and fed properly, and loved. Really loved.
Now, she’s starting preschool. I know it’s a good thing. I do. She’ll have the opportunity to interact with other kids her age, make friends, and be stimulated in ways we could not provide at home. Lots of fun will be had and she’ll learn a lot.
I know.
But, I can’t help but think of all the other little things that she’ll also experience. Things like, outside influences and picking up behavior or language that we do not condone. I also can’t help but wonder if she’ll be safe.
Will she tell me if something bad happens? Will she tell me if someone doesn’t treat her right? Will they make sure she eats properly?
I feel like I’m on a balance board. On one end, there are so many things to be excited about. Yet, on the other end, there are so many things to worry about at the same time.
Not sure that feeling will ever go away.
“… she’s hasn’t just been babysat. She’s been lovingly cared for and attended to by my mother. While having family be her caregiver did have some downsides, overall it was the greatest care I could have ever hoped for. She was in the company of family and I knew she was safe. I knew she was hugged, and fed properly, and loved. Really loved.”
Preach! There is no other care than that of a family member who truly LOVES your kid! But we gotta let them grow up… *unfortunately* 😉
Please be sure to post about her first day! I want to hear all about it!
@Sylvia, Her first day went good Sylvia. You could tell she was excited and teachers all said good things about her.
Hi Melanie!! Your girl is very lucky she was able to get spoiled by abuela in her early years. But you’ll see ho she thrives in pre school as well. Thanks for dropping by my blog (Moms at Work). Y si, estamos haciendo muuuuy buen trabajo :> Kicking butt, I’d say.
@Jeannette, Thanks Jeannette! In my heart I know she’ll grow so much more.
Mine starts in August… I know how you feel. But from the one time I interacted with your daughter, I’m thinking she’s going to be awesome.
@Faiqa, Is she going to VPK? Have you been with her since birth? And, thanks. She’ll love it, I’m sure.
I understand that you are worried about her being in a new element. At the same time, I’m sure that you picked a great pre-school for her. My son’s been going to daycare since he was three months old and both choices I made regarding daycare were great. (My first daycare closed due to them selling the church). We do have drama from time to time…most recently a bug bite on his eyebrow that had his eye swollen shut…but he learns so much and has made great friends! I’m sure the same will happen with your little one (minus the drama!)
@Jai, Oh no! I hope you’re right. No drama needed.