I’m not sure what I expected when J started Montessori. I knew there would be tears. I knew there would be an adjustment period. I knew there would be interrupted sleeps. But I wasn’t quite prepared for how gut-wrenching it is to leave your baby screaming for you in the hands of strangers. Its been 4 days, and I know its not a long time, but I am emotionally exhausted by it. I hate the mornings because I know I have to walk Johannes up the classroom stairs, open the door, kiss his tear-streaked face and wish him goodbye. I sit in my car in the parking lot below and cry for a few minutes every time.
Its hard.
But I have also noticed some positive changes since we started school. Johannes’ cry has changed from one of fear to one of annoyance, annoyance that he has to go THERE again.
I noticed that Johannes now takes an interest in other children, whereas before he would ignore them.
He has expanded his vocabulary by 3 more words: “mommy” “daddy” and “down”.
He tries to have elaborate conversations with us now.
He gestures and tries to articulate what he feels.
He made a friend and she gave him his first kiss. I’m almost certain he won’t remember it, but I will…I saw it happen and it melted my heart.
He started napping without a soother, and although they’re not the 3+ hour naps he has at home, he is slowly nudging his way towards the 2 hour mark. I take this as a good sign.
Today marks 1 full week since he started school…4 full days of class time…1 half day…and one long weekend at home with mom and dad.
We’re working through this all. Its definitely been a learning experience for all 3 of us.
Boston cream cupcake recipe coming up later today.
I’m sure it’s incredibly hard to leave him, but look what great strides he’s already made in such a short amount of time! It’s great! Hugs to you and your beautiful family!
How old is J? We’ve been considering Montessori for our little girl.
He’s doing so great!
Buckle up, Montessori is gonna rock your world. We can not believe the things our (17 mo) daughther is able to do and as her language expands (rapidly) we are in awe of all the things she thinks up. The best part is that it has transformed us as parents and it just keeps getting better. Enjoy!