First Grade

Michaela started first grade earlier this week. First grade!

She liked kindergarten, but didn’t seem to LOVE it. I always adored school (and would be very upset when I couldn’t go), so it was a bit strange for me. I wasn’t sure, then, what to expect as far as her reaction to first grade would be.

We bought new clothes and shoes and set out for the two-block walk to school on Monday morning. When it was time to leave her at school, Michaela teared up. She said she wasn’t scared, but she didn’t want us to go. Of course we did go, and she was off to her new classroom. six or so hours later, Mike and I picked her up and she was in great spirits. She likes her teacher, they made a bookmark, she plays on the big playground now, she sits at Table 1, etc. Michaela gave us a full rundown and it was all good.

Yesterday, the second day of school, Mike dropped her off and picked her up solo. I talked to her after school and she was chipper and positive. We went out to dinner and on the way home, she filled me in on the routine. “In the morning, we do independent reading while Mrs. Evins takes care of classroom chores.” “After lunch, we read Mrs. Evins read us a book called ‘Woof’ about a farm for independent animals. INDEPENDENT ANIMALS! It’s like a tongue twister!”

And today? Outside of some crabbing about still being sleepy, Michaela was pumped to go to school.

I don’t know what it is that’s clicked for her, but I’m so glad it did. I think it’s going to be a good year!