To B...: School Girl

This morning I dropped this little lady off in the toddler room. She looked so big and was ready to be a big girl.

These pics were at the start of a new school year, about a month ago. Caris looks much more grown in just that short span of time! Can't believe the change.

Got my 'pack-pack' on and my keys in hand. Ready to go mom.
Although she always cries and looks a little like the picture above at drop-off. And it never fails to break my heart, and make me threaten to turn in my two-weeks notice.

Caris spoke excitedly about 'sKool' (emphasis on the K, a bit lacking on the S when lil C pronounces) all weekend. When hearing some older girls speak of 'school' at the park, Caris turned to me with wide eyes and said 'sKool!' over and over. I think she was ready to start her new class. The transition began last week and reportedly Caris envoked her use of 'No' when asked to return to the mover classroom. She was ready to be a big girl.

It was clearly time for the transition. But still somewhat surprising to see my little one sharing a classroom with kids who look so grown up. She's loving the attention she gets from being both the newest addition and the youngest; girl eats this up.

We had a meeting with her previous and incoming class teachers to talk about all things Caris. It was so interesting to hear how closely their observations are to our own. Caris loves the fine motor skill work and is able to do some pretty advanced work with threaders and grouping. (I know that's annoying mommy brag) But I share it because it is SOO her daddy and I love to see that in her. Caris is following commands well; she sets the table, clears her plate, washes her hands, on cue. She leads the group to circle time and knows the rules. She knows where the potty is, where her clothes are located, and where her shoes reside and knows when to get said items upon mommies arrival. She knows her animals and objects and puts her work away. They also say books are her favorite :) We concur.

I have loved her mover room teacher and we will be sad to leave her; she along with a few other teachers in the baby room have really taken to our lil C and have loved on her and cared for her with such insight to her personality. I loved hearing what they had to say about our girl. It is still a struggle for me at times be gone from Caris during the week; particularly when she is tired and I realize how much time she spends away from her home. But I am so grateful for the environment they have created for her; she is loved, understood, and indpendence is fostered. The have taken the time to understand what makes Caris, Caris. It helps so much to have such a great place to support Caris.

This morning at drop-off, Caris was greeted by hugs and smiles from former classmates welcoming her to the new environment. She was surrounded by little ones comparing the days chosen attire. Then ventured off with another friend who showed her around. Those two legitimately looked as if they were having a full-on conversation. Her interactions with other girls is so grown up these days. Caris loved showing me her work, table, and chairs. So proud.