It’s bittersweet for me to say that Emily will be starting preschool in less than two weeks. She is so excited! I am a mess. I’m excited for her, but also a mix of amazed, worried, proud, sad, eager…

Being a teacher, I’ve always heard parents marvel at how quickly their child has grown up. I never gave it much thought until my daughter turned 4, when I realized that it would soon be her turn to start school. She missed the birthday cutoff to attend last year, so now this is it. Now it’s my turn to marvel.

Buying the school supplies was surprisingly fun! More for me than for her, I think. 🙂 There’s something almost magical about a new box of crayons or pack of lined paper. They hold so much promise for learning and the school adventures to come. Anybody else feel that way?…..Anybody?……

Without a doubt, she’s going to love learning so many new things in Junior Kindergarten! She’s one smart cookie, if I do say so myself. But still, I worry she might not fit in, or she might be too headstrong, or that she’ll learn the hard truth that not everyone knows how to play nicely. It’s the age-old dilemma of wanting to release her into the world, and yet keep her safe and sound in the comforts of our home.

One bonus is that she will be attending junior kindergarten at the school where I teach 3rd grade. I can sort of keep an eye on her, all the while chanting, “I will not be a helicopter mom. I will NOT be a helicopter mom” in my head repeatedly. I don’t expect any special treatment, but if you’re reading this and you work with me, please keep an eye on my dear little girl, too. Thanks.