So often we hear how fast kids grow up, how quickly they grow, or "they won't be a baby for long". This has not been our story. Erik is still wearing 24 month old clothes, isn't even close to being potty trained, still working on getting him off of pureed foods, and can only say a couple of phrases independently. While I would never ever change how much "baby" time we have gotten with him, the school "season" has come up quickly.
From the first day of school we are expected to drop him off and not communicate or "conference" with the teacher. They take his independence very seriously and want it to start the moment he steps into the classroom. I have a feeling we will be surprised beyond what we can imagine for how much Erik will be able to do by himself when faced with the opportunity. My biggest fear for Erik has been for him to get stuck, developmentally. I can tell this will not be the case with preschool, but I can't help but be terrified for what he will experience. All of the doubt that he won't be able to do what the other kids do or he won't be able to do what his teachers ask of him race through my mind. I plan to be in communication with his teacher through email which will be helpful or I can set up meeting time, but from what I can tell and the short interaction between her and Erik - she is going to be perfect for him. I can see her ability to use life the way that Erik encounters it will be his learning opportunities; which is how we have approached his learning at home. For example, it is ok to let a cracker fall on the floor because the amount of coordination, concentration, strength, vision, and determination it takes for him to pick it back up is what it takes for him to develop and learn. We have had a crash course in patience with Erik as he learns to teach himself and us how get to know his world. I can see that same attitude in his teacher. (While I know this is probably the same perspective all or most parents take, the amount of time it takes Erik to learn the same skills seems to take so much more time - hence his development delay). So, while we are nervous and scared to change seasons, we couldn't be more thrilled to know we are more blessed than we can see right now.
His first school backpack has been ordered. There will be pictures taken of course. Stay tuned :)
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jer. 29:11
