— Kids, Memorable Moments —

And the cycle begins..

February 3, 2010
My son is almost a year and a half old, and as is the norm these days I got him enrolled in a playgroup. The whole process was unbelievably complicated and lengthy. First, to zero-in on the best ones and secondly to shortlist those that are convenient. And then, as always there are people who give unwarranted advice and increase your bewilderment further.
I went with full zest to find out all about them; the atmosphere, the attitude of teachers, the playing area, the activities, everything! Needless to say, only the one I found fit for my kiddo was chosen. But now that the formalities are done with, I’m having my own doubts about sending my son there or not itself! 🙁

He’s learnt to speak all but a few words, cannot eat on his own and is a pampered little kid. I mean, he’s so small. Isn’t it unfair to him to make him leave the loving cushion of his family and go out in the world on his own? What’ll he do if he needs me? How’ll he tell anyone what he wants? God, I’m going crazy!!

When I told A what I felt, the only reply I got was that he had to do all the things that kids of his age do or he’ll feel left out. May be he’s right. However I find my motherly instincts calling out suddenly (and more frequently these days) and I feel this urge to just hug my son tightly and not let go.

I don’t know if I’m overreacting or whether all moms go through this stage. Next time I talk to my mom I’ll make it a point to ask her about what she felt when she dropped me to school the first time. I’m sure she must’ve waited outside my class nervous and worried as to how I must be doing, since I know I’m going to do the same. That’s how all moms are!! 🙂

There are few points though that I believe can aid in minimising the anxiety mothers go through. The one thing that binds us all is hoping the best for our kids and doing everything in our capacity to ensure it.

  • Ask as many questions as you like, shamelessly. Trusting someone with your kid isn’t easy and you need to know everything about the place your kid will spend his time in.
  • Know, and if possible befriend, his teachers and helpers. Seeing you talking to them will familiarise your kid to them too and he’ll feel comfortable in the new place amongst strangers.
  • Be excited for his school to help him enjoy it too. Something as simple as his favourite tiffin, toy or t-shirt can work wonders and make him look forward to school-time.
  • Goodbyes are tough for both mom and kids. Don’t drag them and be quick while ensuring he doesn’t feel abandoned. Keep faith that he’s in safe hands. You did your research well, right?
  • Finally, hard as it might be for you to digest, your child doesn’t need you around all the time. He’ll learn social skills and interact better only when he knows he has to. Accept it.

Do you agree with me? How was your experience like? Would you like to add something?

4 thoughts on “And the cycle begins..”

  1. Yep..thats how MOM's are. Strangely i remember partly my first day..there were balloons and chocolates which i was busy gathering and i was searching for my MOM and all i did end up doing was collecting them and getting to see more balloons…and it was raining heavily outside. Nez, A is correct…everything has its own time…don't worry…things would boil down fine…

  2. I know..what I found unnerving was the thought of seeing my sweetie in a uniform and bringing home workbooks and picture books and all…but that's how it is…

  3. How sweet is that Varsh !! I'm feeling so cute about A going to school now 🙂 These are the building days of his life…so yes hold him right but don't hold him tight 🙂 Papa A is right..just let it go…mothers will be mothers always na !

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