The kids and I walked Olivia into her school. She was hesitant to go into her class. I tried re-assuring many times, but it didn't seem to help. So, I walked in with her and brought her to some friends. She was still nervous. I kept trying to leave, but she would follow me out the door. She kept telling me, "I don't want you to go". I kept re-assuring her. Telling her I would be back and she would have so much fun. She felt nervous. And, I felt bad.
One last time, I went in a played with her and initiated an activity between her and some other little girls. She wasn't saying much. And, I recognized that look on her face - where she feels very awkward and uncomfortable. A huge part of me didn't want to leave her. I knew exactly how she felt, and I didn't want her to feel that way.
I left the room as soon as I had the chance. But, I peaked through the window of the door. She stood there for a minute...still feeling awkward and uncomfortable. And then, she looked around the room and noticed that I wasn't there. She turned her face to the wall and began to wipe the tears. Little did she know, her mom was just outside the door crying too. Good thing I was the only one in the hallway...no one saw me!!! Boy, did my heart ached for her.
I probably totally over-reacted, BUT I do wear my heart on my sleeve AND I only had a few hours of sleep that night. So, that is probably why I was over-emotional and just had no control! ha!
Just after noon that day one of the mom's volunteered at the school today. And, just as though she knew I needed it, she texted me a picture of Olivia with her friends at lunch. Smiling and happy. I was so relieved and felt so much better!
When I picked her up from school, Olivia excitedly told me that her teacher read them a story about a racoon who was nervous at school and didn't want her mommy to leave.... just like Olivia. She thought that was pretty cool. Olivia continued to tell me all about her fun day in Kindergarten!
1 comment:
She did it. It is so important to give kids that opportunity to face hard things so they can grow. That is what life is about. Well done, both of you.
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